Wednesday 15 March 2017 08:58, UK
Leicestershire have confirmed New Zealand wicket-keeper Luke Ronchi as their second overseas player for the 2017 NatWest T20 Blast.
Ronchi replaces Pakistan batsman Sharjeel Khan, one of the players to have been suspended as part of a match-fixing investigation in his homeland.
The 35-year-old has played 32 Twenty20 internationals for New Zealand, as part of 112 total appearances, and his T20 career includes a total of 1,619 runs at a strike-rate of just over 140.
He also posted a 71-ball century playing for New Zealand against Leicestershire during their tour match in 2015.
Ronchi, who previously had a spell with Somerset, said: "I am delighted to have signed with Leicestershire Foxes for the NatWest T20 Blast. I love playing county cricket and can't wait to get started with my new team-mates.
"It seems like an exciting time at the club with a few personnel changes and talented additions to the squad. I hope I can make a difference both on and off the field and contribute to a successful campaign."
The county's head coach Pierre de Bruyn added: "We're delighted to sign Luke, who will offer power and dynamism to our batting line-up.
"He has played a lot of games around the world and his experience in the shortest format of the game will also help our youngsters.
"We are determined to improve in white ball cricket in 2017 and Luke will help us to do that in NatWest T20 Blast. Luke has played for a very good New Zealand side over the last few years and we are excited about him joining us in July."
