Fast bowler Richardson joins Derbyshire for T20 Blast

The 28-year-old finished as the Big Bash League's leading wicket-taker, with 24 at 17.70, as his Melbourne Renegades side won the tournament this year

Derbyshire have announced the signing of Australia's Kane Richardson for the 2019 Vitality Blast.

The club have stated the bowler will be available for the duration of the tournament "subject to final approvals".

The 28-year-old finished as the Big Bash League's leading wicket-taker, with 24 at 17.70, as his Melbourne Renegades side won the tournament this year.

Richardson has 107 career T20 wickets to his name and has represented Australia in 18 ODIs and nine T20Is.

Head coach Dominic Cork, said: "Kane is a top-level T20 bowler and that is what we were looking for with our second overseas signing.

🙌 BBL leading wicket-taker
🏆 BBL winner in 2019

Welcome to #DCCC, Kane 💪#WeAreDerbyshire#RichardsonSigns✍ pic.twitter.com/dS5c6hgxl9

— Derbyshire CCC (@DerbyshireCCC) March 8, 2019

"He’s just won the BBL, which is one of the most competitive tournaments in the game, and I’ve been impressed by what I’ve seen.

"He’s quick and with his international experience I’m looking forward to seeing him lead the line for Derbyshire."

Richardson said he's looking forward to playing in England: “I’ve been lucky to play in T20 tournaments around the world, but this will be my first experience of the Vitality Blast and I’m looking forward to getting going.

"It’s a competitive tournament and I know a few of the guys who we’ll be facing and they all say how great the crowds are under the lights on the T20 nights in England.

"Derbyshire are an ambitious club who have been progressing well in the last few seasons, so hopefully I can contribute towards some wins and get Derbyshire towards the knockout stages."