Vettori to play Twenty20 for Queensland

New Zealand captain Daniel Vettori is joining Queensland as a guest player in the Twenty20 Big Bash tournament beginning next week.

Spin bowler Vettori has agreed to a two-match stint with the Bulls as their overseas player and will make his Queensland debut in the January 13 clash with NSW at ANZ Stadium.

He is also available for the preliminary final should Queensland finish second or third and could play in the $12.5 million Champions League tournament in India should the Bulls qualify by finishing in the top two of the Big Bash.

“We all know his bowling is world class but every bit of feedback we have received about him highlights that he is a fine leader of men who has a fantastic cricket brain and a calm and professional on-field presence,” Queensland coach Trevor Barsby said.

“It might only be a short stint but we are confident there will be long-term benefits from him being a part of our squad during the Big Bash.”

“It’s also a nice boost for Chris Simpson, who is developing into a fine captain.

“I’m sure he will enjoy the experience of having Dan around and soak up some of his knowledge.”

The 30-year-old Black Caps skipper, who was the youngest player to play Test cricket for NZ when he made his debut as an 18-year-old, recently became just the eighth player in history to take 300 Test wickets and score 3000 Test runs.

He has also played in the Indian Premier League for the Delhi Daredevils.

The Bulls squad for Monday night’s opening T20 clash against Victoria at the Gabba will also see Andrew Symonds finally make his Big Bash debut for Queensland.

Symonds has played 41 T20 games for Kent, Deccan Chargers and Australia.

“I’m very fresh and enjoyed the last couple of days of training … so hopefully I can skill up enough before I get out there and be able to contribute,” he said.

Pace bowler Ben Laughlin has been named to make his return from a side strain in the 13-man squad.

Queensland squad: Chris Simpson (capt), Glen Batticciotto, Lee Carseldine, Ben Cutting, Ryan Harris, Chris Hartley, James Hopes, Ben Laughlin, Alister McDermott, Craig Philipson, Nathan Reardon, Nathan Rimmington, Andrew Symonds (one to be omitted, 12th man to be named).

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