Two Australians for Derbyshire after Katich signs

Derbyshire have got their man after signing their first-choice overseas player, Simon Katich, to line up alongside fellow Australian Travis Birt. Katich, who was an international one-day opener until the Champions Trophy, replaces his countryman James Hopes at the Division Two club.

Dave Houghton, Derbyshire's director of cricket said: "He was our first choice." A delighted Katich, who captains New South Wales, returned the sentiments: "I didn't have to think twice." Derbyshire had wanted to sign Katich 12 months ago but he wasn't available due to his Australia commitments. "He is exactly the sort of cricketer who can make a real impact for us," Houghton said.

Katich already has experience of English conditions, having had spells with Durham and Hampshire, and he was part of the Ashes team which lost in 2005.