WORCESTERSHIRE have confirmed the signing of a new fast-bowler ahead of the 2024 season.

New Zealander Nathan Smith will join the club as one of their overseas players for the new season and will be available to represent the county in all formats.

The 25-year-old's career to date has seen him play domestic cricket for Otago Volts and Wellington Firebirds in New Zealand and the Kiwi is now eager to make his mark in England. 

"I'm absolutely thrilled to be joining Worcestershire for the 2024 season," said Smith. "The club's rich history and commitment to developing talent make it an ideal environment for me to grow as a cricketer. 

"I’ve heard a lot of good things about the Club from other Kiwis who have played at New Road recently, and I can't wait to join up with the rest of the squad and hit the ground running."

Smith has consistently impressed in New Zealand's domestic circuit, claiming five-wicket hauls in both T20 and first-class formats. His all-round abilities were further showcased when he was named in the New Zealand A squad for practice matches against the touring India team in 2020.

To date, he has claimed 105 first-class wickets at an impressive average of 27 and has recently passed the half-century mark of wickets in T20 cricket. With the bat, he is averaging a healthy 26, with one first-class century, and a career strike rate of 122 in T20 cricket.

Worcestershire head coach Alan Richardson added: "Nathan is a great character and is a fantastic addition to our squad.

"We have been monitoring him for some time, and his pace and ability to swing the ball will provide us with a significant boost in our bowling department. 

"He's a genuine wicket-taker, can also contribute valuable runs down the order, and is an outstanding fielder, making him a real all-round threat. 

"We believe he'll be a key player in our pursuit of success this season."