Noffke joins Worcestershire

Worcestershire have signed Australia all-rounder Ashley Noffke as their overseas player for next season.

The 31-year old, who has played in a single one-day international and two Twenty20 internationals, will join up with the county in April.

Worcestershire tried to sign Noffke, who had previously had stints with Middlesex, Durham and Gloucestershire, last winter.

He has begun the Australian domestic season with Queensland in the fine form that saw him voted their player of the year in 2007/8, taking six wickets in his first match.

Ashley Noffke steams in during his solitary ODI appearance for Australia

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Last season he became only the third Australian to complete the double of 50 wickets and 500 runs in state cricket.

He made his ODI debut at home to India in February and was selected in Australia’s squad for the tour of the West Indies. In between he took part in the inaugural Indian Premier League with Bangalore Royal Challengers.

Noffke has a first-class bowling average of 28 and a batting average of 27.

Worcestershire director of cricket Steve Rhodes said: "I am delighted that we have secured a player of Ashley's quality. His all-round game is proven in both Australia and England.

“He has a wealth of experience which will be a huge benefit to our younger players.

"He still has a desire to play for Australia again and Worcestershire can only benefit from this. He is a vital part of our plans for the 2009 season."

Noffke added: "I am delighted to be joining Worcestershire for the 2009 season.

"The club has had an excellent summer gaining promotion to Division One of the LV County Championship and has put together a squad capable of challenging for silverware on all fronts.

“From my conversations with Steve Rhodes, I am certain I can play a big role in what I expect to be a successful season and I can't wait to join up with Steve and the rest of the squad in April."