Cricket: English pros in for twenty/20 campaign

Otago has signed two experienced but relatively unknown English professionals for the domestic twenty/20 tournament.

While the names Darren Stevens and and Chris Nash are unfamiliar in this part of the world, the pair have well-established first-class careers and are expected to make an impact for the Volts this summer.

Stevens has played 168 first-class games and is a powerful striker who can bat anywhere in the order. He is also a useful medium-pacer who often opens the bowling for Kent.

In 84 twenty/20 fixtures the right-hander has scored 1746 runs at an impressive average of 29.59. And the runs have come at a good clip. He is also regarded as a clever bowler, having taken 39 wickets at 21.51 with an economy rate of 7.29.

Otago coach Mike Hesson has seen Stevens play for Kent and rates the 34-year-old highly.

"He is very well-respected around the [county] scene as one of the best players not to play for England," Hesson said.

"So he is someone we are certainly keen to have."

Nash has been a regular member of the Sussex side that has dominated the county limited-overs tournaments in recent years. He came highly recommended by Brendon McCullum, who had a stint with Sussex this season.

The 27-year-old middle-order batsman and offspin bowler will help fill the void expected to be left by Nathan McCullum when he is on duty for the Black Caps.

"Sussex have been the best side over there for the last three or four years. So for him to play a major role is testament to his ability."

Nash has chalked up 49 twenty/20 games, scoring 834 runs at 22.54 and chipping in with 13 wickets at 19.07.

The Englishmen are expected arrive in the city towards the end of November, before Otago's opening game against Wellington on December 4.

"They will be here for all our pre-season and practice twenty/20 games," Hesson said.

"They are both really keen to get over here as early as we want them. But a week to 10 days gives us plenty of time to play some trials and get them used to the squad and the style of play over here."

Otago was keen to secure the services of Dimitri Mascarenhas, who played for the province in 2008-09. However, the big-hitting all-rounder is struggling with an injury which will rule him out of all cricket until after Christmas.