New Zealand opening batsman Martin Guptill has signed to play one game for the Sydney Thunder in Australia's domestic Twenty20 competition.
Guptill and England wicketkeeper Matt Prior have been contracted as the Thunder's two initial overseas players in the "Big Bash" although they will share the role with two other big-hitters - Chris Gayle of the West Indies and Shahid Afridi of Pakistan.
Gayle is on international duty when the Thunder open their campaign with a derby match against the Sydney Sixes at the Sydney Cricket Ground.
Guptill will play that match on December 8 before making way for the destructive Gayle.
NZN