Blackcaps allrounder Jimmy Neesham has committed to Hobart Hurricanes in the Australian Big Bash League, starting next week.
Neesham, 32, initially missed out on an NZ Cricket contract and later declined one, after teammates Trent Boult and Colin de Grandhomme opted out, claiming he already had deals with teams in offshore professional leagues.
He has remained a key member of the international white-ball set-up, contesting last month's Twenty20 World Cup and the recent home series against India, but the Hurricanes have confirmed his addition to their roster for the Aussie T20 league.
"I'm really excited to be involved with the Big Bash for the first time this year," Neesham said. "I've heard great things about the Hurricanes set-up and the list this year looks incredibly strong, so to be able to play even a small part in what I hope will be a successful tournament for the franchise is a really great opportunity for me.
"A lot of people say Tasmania is a bit like a mini New Zealand, so I'm looking forward to getting over there, meeting the guys and playing the role that is asked of me for the team."
Neesham joins Pakistan batter Asif Ali, bowler Faheem Ashraf and allrounder Shadab Khan, along with England batter Zak Crawley, as Hobart's international recruits, while their homegrown roster includes Australian wicketkeeper Matt Wade, and batters Ben McDermott and D'Arcy Short.
The Hurricanes open their Big Bash account against Melbourne Stars on Friday, December 16.
