Northamptonshire sign New Zealand international Doug Bracewell

Northamptonshire has strengthened its bowling attack for the start of the 2018 season with the signing of New Zealand international Doug Bracewell.

Bracewell, 27, brings a wealth of experience to The County Ground after featuring in 60 international matches for New Zealand and 82 First Class games during his career to date, and has just got himself back into the Black Caps team for the recent One Day series v West Indies.

Head coach David Ripley told the club’s official website: “We’re delighted to have secured Doug’s services for the first part of the season until Rory is able to join us for the 50 over competition.

“He is highly skilled and vastly experienced, with plenty of international experience under his belt, and he will give us the additional firepower we need alongside an already high quality attacking unit.

“His presence will certainly add some competition for places, which is always healthy for the boys. We’re delighted to be getting him over.”

Bracewell added: “I’m grateful for the opportunity ahead at Northants and am very much looking forward to working with the club for the start of the county season. “It’s a great opportunity to challenge myself in different conditions and I am hoping to improve as a player but also make a difference at the club while I’m there.”

He has appeared in 27 Tests, taking 72 wickets with best figures of 9-60 in Hobart, leading New Zealand to their first Test win in Australia in 26 years. He also has a handy record with the bat, making 2914 runs in 82 games with a high score of 105.