Mascarenhas to play for Otago

England all-rounder Dimitri Mascarenhas is set to play in New Zealand next winter, after agreeing to join Otago Volts for their 2008/09 State Shield and State Twenty20 campaigns.

Mascarenhas was yesterday left out of England’s NatWest Series squad to face South Africa this month and next but appears likely to have a busy off-season, with or without international recognition.

It was just under 12 months ago that Mascarenhas, since elevated to the captaincy of Hampshire, announced himself on the one-day international stage with five sixes in an over off India’s Yuvraj Singh at the Brit Oval.

Mascarenhas became the only English-qualified player to take part in the inaugural Indian Premier League last spring - and is looking forward to another globe-trotting opportunity.

“I’m delighted to be a part of the Volts set-up and am really looking forward to playing some good cricket for them next season,” said the 30-year-old, who was born in London but raised until his late teens in Western Australia.

Dimitri Mascarenhas was the only English player to take part in the inaugural IPL this year

“Playing cricket in New Zealand has always been something I’ve wanted to do, because I love the country - and Otago seemed an obvious destination with such a talented playing list who will be looking for success.

“After my experiences playing ODI and Twenty20 cricket for England and in the IPL with the Rajasthan Royals, I really feel like I have something to offer the Volts in terms of leadership and experience.

“I really can’t wait to get out there and meet the boys.”

Otago Cricket chief executive Ross Dykes is pleased to have secured the services of a potential match-winner.

“Dimitri is a dynamic cricketer with the ability to win a match on his own,” he said.

“His aggressive approach to the game mirrors the philosophies of the Volts and, like (New Zealand wicketkeeper-batsman) Brendon McCullum, he is a cricketer who can change the course of a game in a very short space of time.

“The State Otago Volts are determined to build on their successes of last season and see Dimitri Mascarenhas as a player who can add excitement and skill in all three disciplines of the game.

“Dimitri is clearly excited at the opportunity to play in an experienced and successful team under a management structure that encourages flair.

“With an English one-day series against West Indies in March, Dimitri will be well motivated to be in the best possible form during the State Shield and Twenty20 competitions.”