Somerset’s hopes of Vitality Blast T20 glory this year have been boosted by the news that Rilee Rossouw will be joining the club as an overseas player.

Subject to obtaining the appropriate visa, the 32-year-old South African will be available for the whole competition, including the knockout stages and Finals Day.

The powerful left-handed top order batter has featured in 15 IT20s for the Proteas, scoring more than 300 runs at a strike rate of 137.97.

In total he has played 236 T20 matches in his career, scoring more than 5,800 runs at a strike rate of 138.47 with a high score of 112 not out.

A well renowned T20 player, Rilee has played for some of the biggest franchises in the world, including Royal Challengers Bangalore and Melbourne Renegades.

He also played an integral role in the Multan Sultans' route to this season’s Pakistan Super League final.

Somerset Director of Cricket, Andy Hurry, is excited to have secured the services of such an explosive batter.

“I’m delighted that we have signed Rilee for this season’s Vitality Blast,” he said.

“Having looked at the strengths and the quality that we currently have within the T20 squad, as well as considering the global, domestic and international cricket concurrently being played during the Blast, including England Test and One-Day International England fixtures, we felt that adding additional explosive firepower to the batting unit would dovetail perfectly with the very strong group of players within the squad and also enhance our ability to go one step further this season.

“To have a player of Rilee’s proven strike rates and global experience in this format available for the duration of the Blast will add real value to our campaign.”

After signing for the club, Rilee said: “I have experience of playing in England and I made 156 at Taunton in a 50-over game a few seasons back.

"I remember how the Members and supporters reacted to that even though I was playing for the opposition. That is something that I’ve never forgotten.

“When the opportunity to play for Somerset came along, I was delighted to take up the challenge.

"I know that the team got to the final of the Blast last year, and hopefully I can help them go one better this summer.”