SHANE Bond could make his Worcestershire debut when the new season starts in April should the Kiwi pace ace opt to join the New Road outfit.

Your Worcester News exclusively revealed today that contact between the two parties had been made and now chief executive Mark Newton is hopeful the County have finally got their overseas player for the new campaign.

While he expects it to be "weeks" rather than "days" before the deal is done, initial signs are positive.

"These things take time," Newton said. "But we have been encouraged with the early signs. We have been able to ascertain that Shane will be available from mid-April."

The 32-year-old 17-Test cap international has signed a three-year deal with the rebel Indian Cricket League and once the first tournament is over in April, Bond should be free until September.