Foxes secure McDonald for 2010

Andrew McDonald has taken nine wickets in four Tests against South Africa over the turn of the year

Leicestershire have signed Australia all-rounder Andrew McDonald as their overseas player for the 2010 season.

McDonald, 27, whose four Test appearances have all come in the recent back-to-back series against South Africa, will not join the county during the forthcoming season.

Leicestershire chief executive David Smith said: “Andrew will be a good role model to our young players at Leicestershire and we look forward to welcoming him to the club in April 2010.

“The club’s selection policy for 2010 will see Leicestershire play nine English-qualified players and two non-qualified players in all forms of cricket. Andrew will fit into this structure.

“Andrew comes very highly recommended from our sources in Australia.

“He has played the last four Test matches for Australia and he is one of only five cricketers to have scored 750 runs and taken 25 wickets in a Pura Cup Season.

“He will bring a strong all-round balance to the side and will also be a big asset for us in one day cricket.”

Smith added that Leicestershire would not sign an Australian international hopeful in the run-up to the Ashes.

In last season’s Pura Cup, the Victorian scored 356 runs at an average of 44 and took 22 wickets at 21. McDonald plays in the same state side as former Leicestershire player Brad Hodge, who spent two prolific years at the club in 2003 and 2004.

Iain O’Brien, the New Zealand medium-pacer, will serve as overseas player at Grace Road in 2009.