Aaron Finch joins Rajasthan Royals

Rajasthan Royals have drafted Victoria batsman Aaron Finch into their squad for the 2010 IPL season. Rajasthan lost Graeme Smith and Dimitri Mascarenhas to injuries but Finch was included because they had an extra overseas slot free, and not as a replacement player.

"Aaron is a sensational young player and he fits within the Royals values of promoting and selecting young talent," Sean Morris, Rajasthan's chief executive, said.

Finch, who represented Victoria during the Champions League Twenty20 in October last year, has already joined the team in India. He strengthens the Australian presence in the Rajasthan outfit, joining Shane Warne, Adam Voges and Shaun Tait. The franchise is also awaiting the arrival of Shane Watson, who will head to India after the Test series in New Zealand. Finch's inclusion came shortly after Rajasthan cut former Australian batsman Damien Martyn from their squad.

Rajasthan's campaign has experienced a revival in the last few days. The team, which was bottom of the league after losing its first three matches, is now third after winning the next three in a row.