Zander de Bruyn signs for Worcestershire

The South African allrounder, Zander de Bruyn, has signed as one of Worcestershire's two overseas players for the 2005 season. De Bruyn, 29, made his Test debut last year and played against England at Port Elizabeth in the opening match of the recent Test series, before making way for the return of Nicky Boje and Herschelle Gibbs.

"I am really looking forward to the opportunity of playing with Worcestershire and to contributing to a successful season," said de Bruyn, who enjoyed a successful domestic season in South Africa, where he scored three hundreds and three half-centuries. "The county has a strong and competitive squad and is ambitious to build on the progress made over the last few years. The opportunity could not have come at a better time in my career, and I intend to make it count for the Worcestershire supporters."

Tom Moody, Worcestershire's director of cricket, was delighted at the signing, and believes de Bruyn is just the man to help them return to Division One of the County Championship, after their relegation last season. "We have spent some time looking for a batting allrounder to fill one of our overseas spots, and I believe we have found the right person in Zander. He has had an outstanding first-class season in South Africa, and I have no doubt he will make a positive impact throughout the season."

The signing will not be ratified until it receives official clearance from the United Cricket Board of South Africa.