Botha takes T20 nous to Northants

South Africa Twenty20 captain Johan Botha has 27 wickets at 20.55 in 26 T20 internationals and is a handy lower-order batsman

Northamptonshire have signed South Africa off-spinner Johan Botha as one of their overseas players for this season’s Friends Provident t20.

Botha is the Proteas’ Twenty20 captain and will also take over the 50-over team when Graeme Smith hands over the reins at the end of the World Cup.

As well as being a consistent performer with the ball Botha, who has 27 wickets at 20.55 in 26 T20 internationals, is also a handy lower-order batsman and fielder.

Botha said: “(Former Northamptonshire captain) Nicky Boje told me what a wonderful set-up there is at Northants and how great the people are. I can’t wait to play there and make a contribution to the team."

Head coach David Capel added: “I’m delighted we have been successful in recruiting Johan as a quality spin bowling all-rounder for our 2011 t20 campaign.

“It is well recognised the level of impact an experienced spinner can have on a t20 match, you just have to look at what Nicky did for us.”