SOMERSET have announced the signing of New Zealand international all-rounder Corey Anderson as their overseas player for this season’s Natwest T20 Blast campaign.

The powerful left-handed batsman, who also bowls left-arm medium-fast, will be available for all matches in the competition - representing a change in approach from previous years.

Anderson has built up considerable experience in the international arena, having played 13 Test matches, 45 ODIs and 29 T20s over the past five years.

The middle order batsman shot to prominence on New Year’s Day in 2014 when he broke a 17-year record for the fastest ever One-Day International century, blasting a 36-ball hundred for New Zealand against the West Indies in Queenstown.

A year later he helped his national team reach the 2015 World Cup final, scoring 58 in the dramatic victory over South Africa in the last four.

He was due to represent Somerset later on that season but had to pull out of a deal due to a back injury, so is now determined to make up for lost time.

Speaking after signing the deal, Anderson said: “I’m delighted to be heading to Somerset for the 2017 NatWest T20 Blast campaign. 

“Having been unable to fulfil a contract at Somerset a few years ago due to injury, I’m excited to finally get the opportunity to play for this distinguished club. 

“Somerset have a strong squad that are looking to challenge on all fronts this season and I hope I can play my part as we push for the T20 title.”

Director of cricket Matthew Maynard added: “To be able to add a player of his calibre to the squad is great news for us. 

“He is an exciting player and a very talented cricketer who strikes the ball exceptionally well. 

“It was a shame that he couldn’t play for us a few years ago but I have no doubt that he will show the supporters that it was worth the wait!”

Anderson, who represented the Delhi Daredevils in this season’s Indian Premier League, follows in the footsteps of his compatriot Luke Ronchi, who appeared for Somerset in the 2015 T20 competition, and will be hoping to match the impact of Chris Gayle but over a longer period of time.

Somerset’s T20 Blast campaign begins against Surrey at The Oval on July 9, with the first home match coming against local rivals Gloucestershire on July 21.