Strauss set for New Zealand stint

Andrew Strauss: can New Zealand kick-start his international career? © Getty Images

Andrew Strauss, the out-of-favour England opener, has signed with Northern Districts in New Zealand to play for them in the domestic one-day championship.

Strauss was dropped for England's tour of Sri Lanka after going a year without scoring a century and said at the time that he would "look into the opportunities available" for him to find some cricket during the winter.

"I am really excited about the possibility of playing cricket in New Zealand ahead of England's tour there in the new year," he told the Press Association. "I have been really impressed by the professionalism and ambition of Northern Districts and I feel that this is a golden opportunity for me to score some runs, experience a new challenge, and adapt to New Zealand conditions prior to England's tour.

"I am very focused on getting selected for this tour, winning my place back, and making sure I build on the success I have had to date personally, as well as helping England win Test matches."

Andy Moles, the Northern Districts coach and former Warwickshire batsman, said: "As well as his outstanding playing record, Andrew will bring his experience of Test match cricket which will be a great opportunity for our younger crop of players coming through. I have no doubt Andrew will be a great addition to the team."

Strauss will be the third England international to opt for a stint overseas this winter. Steve Harmison spent a short spell in South Africa with the Lions before he was added to the Sri Lanka tour and Liam Plunkett is playing there for the Dolphins.

England leave at the end of January for the tour of New Zealand that includes three Tests, five ODIs and two Twenty20 internationals.