Ottniel Baartman joins Hampshire for six Vitality T20 Blast matches

An African seafarer steps in for Naveen-ul-Haq during the second half of the group stage.

For the second part of their Vitality Blast season, Hampshire has hired South African seamer Ottniel Baartman. Naveen-ul-Haq of Afghanistan has withdrawn due to personal reasons, and Baartman takes his position.

The 31-year-old Baartman has not yet received a cap for his nation, but he was selected for South Africa's T20 World Cup team and may play in their series against the West Indies, which begins later this week. He was a teammate of Liam Dawson at Sunrisers Eastern Cape, where he played for the SA20 champions Sunrisers under head coach Adi Birrell.

"I'm really looking forward to joining up with Hampshire Hawks for my first experience of county cricket," Baartman stated, "it's great to link back up with Adi Birrell and Liam Dawson who I know well from the SA20. I've heard great things about the atmosphere at Utilita Bowl and I can't wait to get playing in front of the Hawks fans this summer."

Michael Neser, who signed for the first eight Blast group games, will be replaced by Baartman, who will become Hampshire's second overseas option after Ben McDermott. Starting with the trip to Middlesex, he will be available for six matches in July. Should Hampshire advance, he will also be available for the September knockout stages.

Giles White, Hampshire's director of cricket, noted: "It's a great boost to the squad that Ottniel is available and keen to join us after the World Cup. He fits the role perfectly and comes off the back of an outstanding domestic summer in South Africa."