O'Brien signs for Leicestershire

Leicestershire have signed the New Zealand fast bowler Iain O'Brien as an overseas player for the first part of the 2009 season. O'Brien's international duties will limit his county appearances to eight Championship and 13 one-day fixtures, but the club said he was a valuable role model to the other bowlers.

"Iain has come very highly recommended by my ex Warwickshire colleague and New Zealand head coach Andy Moles," said Leicestershire chief executive David Smith. "He has an excellent domestic state first-class bowling record with Wellington and has played 14 Test matches for New Zealand, taking 43 wickets.

"Iain will bring some much-needed senior bowling experience to the club in both Championship and one-day cricket and will allow our developing young bowlers to be brought into the side at the right times throughout the 2009 season."

O'Brien, 32, will join the club for their opening Championship match against Northamptonshire at Grace Road starting April 15. He is currently representing New Zealand in the ongoing series against India.