Northants land van der Wath

Johannes van der Wath

Northamptonshire have announced that South African Johannes van der Wath has signed as their second overseas player for the 2007 season.

Currently playing for the Eagles in South Africa, van der Wath is seen by Northants as a versatile all-rounder, capable of lively pace bowling and powerful hitting in the middle order.

Northants last month retained the services of Australian batsman Chris Rogers for next season.

Van der Vath said: "I'm really looking forward to a full season in England playing county cricket. The time at Sussex last year whetted my appetite and I've heard really good things about Northamptonshire.

"Plans for the season sound exciting and I want to let the club fans know that I'll be doing my best to help make it a successful one."

Chief executive Mark Tagg added: “In the increasingly competitive four-day and one-day game we are determined to play attractive and exciting cricket and Johannes' signature will ensure that our supporters will be able to enjoy top-quality entertainment throughout the season.”

Director of cricket David Capel said: “I am very pleased that we have concluded arrangements for Johannes to play for Northamptonshire for 2007 season.

"He offers us experienced seam bowling and hard-hitting lower middle-order options in all forms of the game.

"He is a well respected cricketer in South Africa and one that has a reputation for giving 100 per cent at all times as well as being a quality performer.

"He is a right-handed batsman and right-arm fast-medium bowler and will be a great asset to Northants cricket next season."