Klinger To Cover For Delayed Hughes At Worcestershire

Klinger To Cover For Delayed Hughes At Worcestershire

Michael Klinger, here in action for South Australia in the Champions League, is set for a stint at New Road with Worcestershire

©REUTERS / Action Images

31-year-old Australian batsman Michael Klinger will deputise for compatriot Phillip Hughes as Worcestershire's overseas player in the first half of the 2012 county season.

Hughes' arrival at New Road has been delayed after he was included in Australia's training camps and Klinger steps in on the back of an outstanding run of form for South Australia.

He recently scored a second-innings double-century against Tasmania and was the leading run-scorer in the 2011/12 Ryobi Cup - Australia's domestic one-day competition - with 498 at 55.33.

"I saw Mike play out in Adelaide against New South Wales in October and his skill, attitude, and maturity as a player made me sit up and take note," Worcestershire Director of Cricket Steve Rhodes said.

"Mike has recently captained South Australia to the domestic One Day title and his batting was one of the main reasons for the success as he was the top run scorer in the competition."

"I am looking forward to welcoming him to New Road and working with him."

Klinger added: "I am extremely excited to be joining Worcestershire for the start of the season. I've heard many good things about the County and I look forward to contributing to the team in getting some wins early in the season. The experience in playing in English conditions is something I'm looking forward to and endeavour to continue to improve my game."

© Cricket World 2012