Australian wicket-keeper/batsman Matthew Wade is set to join Birmingham Bears for the final six games of the NatWest T20 Blast group stages following Luke Ronchi’s departure for New Zealand’s tour of Zimbabwe and South Africa.

Wade (28), who is currently playing in Australia’s tri-series with South Africa and West Indies in the Caribbean, has played 25 International T20 matches to date in addition to winning 65 One-Day International and 12 Test caps.

He plays for Melbourne Renegades in Australia’s Big Bash, after joining from rivals Melbourne Stars in 2014, and has played for the Delhi Daredevils in the Indian Premier League.

Director of Cricket Dougie Brown, said: “Matthew is an ideal replacement for Luke and a great addition to the squad who will provide power to the middle-order as well as being a top class gloveman.

“He has experience of playing the biggest competitions around the world and joins us at a key time as we look to secure our third successive qualification for the NatWest T20 Blast quarter finals.”

Wade will join the Bears ahead of the NatWest T20 Blast game away to Yorkshire Vikings away at Headingley on Friday 8 July. His six-match spell will include home games against Leicestershire Foxes on Sunday 17 July and Notts Outlaws on Friday 22 July.

Welcome to @Edgbaston @MatthewWade13 who joins us for our final 6 @NatWestT20Blast games https://t.co/MlGzCKPN2f pic.twitter.com/2qq4aaWOIe

— Birmingham Bears (@BearsT20) June 15, 2016

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