Worcs recruit Dutch signing

Steve Rhodes has been very impressed by Alexei Kervezee's talent © Getty Images

Worcestershire have signed 17 year-old Dutch international, Alexei Kervezee, on a two-year contract.

Kervezee has already played four one-day internationals for Holland including making a top score of 47 against Sri Lanka in July as a 16 year-old.

He is in Holland’s squad for the World Cup in the West Indies early next year and has batted in their middle order and has aspirations to become an all rounder.

The teenager is delighted to be joining the club, especially after such a good 2006 season which saw them promoted in both competitions.

"I'm very happy and excited about signing with the club and am looking forward to learning from such great players and coaches.

“I have already received such warm & encouraging impressions from everyone - the players, the coaches and the management."

Worcestershire’s chief executive, Mark Newton, explained: "Alexei came to our attention earlier this year and is a very accomplished and exciting young talent.

“He came over to trial with the Club and I went to Amsterdam recently to meet with him and his family. We have agreed that he will spend the next two seasons with us where he will benefit from being part of a professional squad.”

A similar set-up was instigated when Graeme Hick came over from Zimbabwe and Worcestershire allowed him to join their playing staff as part of his development.

Director of cricket, Steve Rhodes, is equally excited and says: "Alexei is very strong for his age and shows remarkable technique at this stage of his development.

"Both Damian (D’Oliveira) and myself really look forward to working with him over the next two years. He spent the day with the squad during our Natwest Pro40 League match against Surrey to savour the atmosphere and we look forward to seeing him back here next season on a full time basis."