De Grandhomme signs for Birmingham Bears

Colin de Grandhomme, the New Zealand allrounder, has signed for Birmingham Bears for this year's NatWest T20 Blast.

De Grandhomme, 30, made an impressive Test debut against Pakistan in November, claiming 6 for 41 in the first innings to pave the way for an eight-wicket victory. However, it is as a T20 batsman that he has built his reputation, in which format he boasts a strike-rate of 171.04 from exactly 100 matches.

He recently forced his way back into New Zealand's team in all three formats following an impressive domestic season with Auckland Aces, which included 139 runs in four Super Smash T20 games at a strike rate of 220.63.

"Colin is a perfect addition to the team for our 2017 campaign, adding the batting firepower that we desire in our middle order, whilst adding depth to our bowling attack as an experienced seamer bowler," said Ashley Giles, Warwickshire's director of cricket.

"His batting strike-rate is unparalleled in the professional game. He has been in the best form of his career this winter and his power and ability to clear the boundary makes him on of the most exciting batsmen in the game.

"I have spoken previously about needing to recruit cricketers who are not only talented, but are hungry for success, can play the entire campaign and have the right character to become a Bear. We certainly get this with Colin and look forward to seeing him join up with the squad in July."

De Grandhomme will be joined in the Bears squad by his fellow New Zealander, Jeetan Patel, who is currently playing against South Africa at Dunedin.

"As a New Zealand cricketer, I am really excited by the opportunity to play to become a Bear," said de Grandhomme. "I look forward to meeting Ashley, the team, staff and its Members in July and working together to achieve our goal of a home Finals Day at Edgbaston."