Astle is one of the game's cleanest hitters

Derbyshire have agreed terms with New Zealand all-rounder Nathan Astle to be their second overseas player next season.

The 31-year-old will join Australian Michael Di Venuto at the Counyt Ground, but will not be available until June because of international commitments.

Astle has scored more than 5,000 one-day runs for New Zealand, including 12 hundreds and 30 half centuries.

He also holds the record for the fastest double century in a Test match, having made 222 off 153 balls against England at Christchurch earlier this year.

"As a quality international, Nathan will strengthen our existing squad.

"The thought of he and Michael Di Venuto batting together will give a lot of opposition bowlers a real headache," said Derbyshire captain Dominic Cork.

Astle has previous experience of county cricket, having made nine Championship appearances for neighbours Notts in 1997.

Derbyshire will be looking to him to help them mount a promotion challenge in both the Championship and Norwich Union Leagues next season.

He is also likely to be a key figure for them in the new Twenty/20 competition.