Gloucs close to signing Franklin

James Franklin celebrates a wicket in his previous spell at Gloucestershire in 2004

Gloucestershire are on the verge of signing New Zealand all-rounder James Franklin as their overseas player for 2009.

Franklin, 28, a swift left-arm seamer and hard-hitting middle-order batsman, had a previous stint with the county five years ago, and also played for Glamorgan in 2006.

John Bracewell, the new Gloucestershire director of cricket, said: “James is capable of batting at six and taking the new ball so he will be an excellent acquisition.

“As a left-armer, he will add variety to our bowling attack and as a genuine all-rounder his presence will enable us to play two spinners when the pitches are suitable.”

Franklin has taken 79 wickets in 23 Tests for the Black Caps, and struck a thrilling 122 not out at number nine against South Africa in Cape Town in 2006.

In 2004, Franklin took 7-60 against Lancashire at Cheltenham, and contributed valuable middle-order runs.

The approach for Franklin means Bracewell could have three prominent New Zealanders at his disposal - Craig Spearman and Hamish Marshall are expected to form the heart of the batting order.

Gloucestershire chief executive Tom Richardson said: “There are still one or two details to tie up, but we are confident of announcing the signing of James in the next few days.”

Richardson said yesterday that the county’s overseas signing would likely be available for the entire domestic season.

Gloucestershire had expected to strike a deal with another Kiwi, Kyle Mills, but he was snapped up for $150,000 by the Indian Premier League franchise Mumbai Indians.