State Canterbury Wizards have signed Nashua Titans wicketkeeper/batsman Kruger van Wyk.
Van Wyk follows former Titans coach Dave Nosworthy to New Zealand ahead of the 2006/07 season.
The 26-year-old has notched up 156 dismissals and has a batting average of 29.18 in 48 First-Class matches for the Titans.
A limited-overs specialist, he has taken 71 One-Day dismissals and a batting average of 38.45 to his credit.
In the South African Pro20 tournament, he averages an impressive 45 with the bat and a strike rate of 132.35.
Van Wyk said: “I am most grateful to the Titans for everything that they have done for me during the past six seasons.
“I also appreciate the amicable way in which the Titans released me from my contractual obligations to them and wish them everything of the best in the future.
“I am most appreciative to Canterbury for allowing me the opportunity to make this important change in my career and look forward to making a substantial contribution to their cause”
Canterbury Cricket CEO Richard Reid added: “It is wonderful to have gained a player with the pedigree of Kruger Van Wyk, and now look forward to a long and successful future with him.
“Kruger’s previous relationship with our Coach Dave Nosworthy no doubt pointed him in our direction, and I thus have no doubt that he will be an asset and a real performer within our setup.”
Van Wyk will likely deputise for Brendon McCullum and Michael Papps when the BLACKCAPS duo are on international duty.
