Caribbean flavour added to T20 series

The withdrawal of the West Indies cricket team from their tour of India has given a boost to the local T20 competition with a number of Caribbean players signing with local franchises, Cricket SA said on Monday.

The West Indies cut short their tour on India 10 days ago because of an internal pay dispute, even though the fifth one-day international, a Twenty20 match and three tests still remained to be played.

As a result, T20 tournament director Graeme Smith said he was able to sign some of those players for the local franchises.

"I am delighted to announce that our franchises have recruited some of the world's best T20 players," he said.

"In my discussions with all the super stars it has been satisfying to note their eagerness to play in the Ram Slam as they regard South Africa as one of the best cricket leagues in the world."

West Indian players who will turn out in the local tournament are Kieron Pollard for the Cape Cobras, Dwayne Bravo for the Dolphins, Andre Russell for the Knights, Chris Gayle for the Highveld Lions and Darren Sammy for the Titans.