Mascarenhas to join Volts

English International cricketer Dimitri Mascarenhas will play for the State Otago Volts in the State Shield and State Twenty20 tournaments this summer.

Mascarenhas has established a reputation as a massive striker, an economical bowler and an electric fieldsman, in his 12 month international career.

His feat of hitting five sixes in one over against India indicates the impact he is capable of having in the short forms of the game.

He was born in England of Sri Lankan parents but was raised in Perth before returning to England to take up a county contract with Hampshire where he made his First Class debut in 1996.

Otago Cricket CEO Ross Dykes said: “Dimitri is a dynamic cricketer with the ability to win a match on his own.

His aggressive approach to the game mirrors the philosophies of the Volts and, like Brendon McCullum, he is a cricketer who can change the course of a game in a very short space of time.

“The State Otago Volts are determined to build on their successes of last season and see Dimitri Mascarenhas as a player who can add excitement and skill in all three disciplines of the game.

“Dimitri is clearly excited at the opportunity to play in an experienced and successful team under a management structure that encourages flair.

With an English One Day Series against West Indies in March, Dimitri will be well motivated to be in the best possible form during the State Shield and Twenty20 competitions.”

Mascarenhas said: ‘I’m delighted to be a part of the Volts set-up and am really looking forward to playing some good cricket for them next season. Playing cricket in New Zealand has always been something I’ve wanted to do as I love the country and Otago seemed an obvious destination with such a talented playing list who will be looking for success.

“After my experiences playing ODI and T20 cricket for England and in the IPL with the Rajasthan Royals, I really feel like I have something to offer the Volts in terms of leadership and experience. I’ve had positive conversations with Mike Hesson and Craig Cumming over the past few weeks so I really can’t wait to get out there and meet the boys.”