Netherlands name Michael Dighton as overseas player

Netherlands have secured Michael Dighton, the Tasmanian batsman, as their overseas player for the Clydesdale Bank 40.

Dighton, 33, has previously had spells in English domestic cricket with Derbyshire and Hampshire and is an important asset to the Netherlands side shorn of Ryan ten Doeschate, who is with Essex ,and Alexei Kervezee, who will play for Worcestershire.

Dighton said he is pleased to be linking up with the Netherlands team and hoped his experience will aid a young side. "I am really looking forward to representing the Netherlands in the Clydesdale Bank 40," he said. "I will use my experience and leadership qualities to help the whole squad in all areas of the demanding modern game.

"It is an exciting time in Dutch cricket and participation in this tournament will give the squad great exposure to a high standard of cricket."

Peter Drinnen, the Netherlands coach, is also thrilled to see Dighton in the squad. "Michael will bring that general "know-how" to the games for senior and junior players alike and give us the opportunity to have a well respected cricketer within our ranks for most of the season.

"It is increasingly difficult to find overseas players for a full season and having Mike resident in the Netherlands for a summer combining his club duties with VOC Rotterdam is an added boost."