NEWCOMER Nantie Hayward has vowed to play a major role in Worcestershire's bid to gain First Division status in the Frizzell County Championship next season.

Confirmation that the South African Test fast bowler has signed for the County came today from New Road chief executive Mark Newton.

The announcement ended red-hot rumours which suggested Hayward was the mystery man that Worcestershire have snapped up as their second overseas player for next term.

Twenty five-year-old Hayward, who will arrive at New Road when his contract runs out with the United Cricket Board of South Africa in a few months time, said: "I am really looking forward to playing county cricket with Worcestershire.

"I want to perform the best I can and to help the team achieve increased success.

"I am confident that if I do well it will help the team do well and that we will be competing for trophies."

Newton said: "Nantie is an experienced Test match opening bowler as he has proven recently against Pakistan.

"He will give our opening attack pace and hostility as we strive for First Division status in the Frizzell County Championship."

Hayward, who has signed a two-year contract, joins South African all-rounder Andrew Hall, whose move to Worcestershire was confirmed last month.

Hayward claimed his 50th Test scalp on Sunday, having taken his first five-wicket haul in the previous match against Pakistan.

Reports in South African quote UCB chief executive Gerald Majola as saying that Hayward is in breach of his one-year contract, which runs until the end of April, and would be required to appear before a disciplinary committee as soon as possible. This is likely to happen later this week.

"He must face the consequences," said Majola.

Hayward has played in 14 Tests and 21 one-day internationals for South Africa.

When Worcestershire's Director of Cricket Tom Moody officially announced last month that he had completed the signing of two new overseas players for next season, he said: "I am delighted to have secured the services of two international players who will add real quality to our side."

As well as Hall and Hayward, the County have also captured fast bowler Dave Wigley and batsman Stephen Moore on university contracts.