Bracewell hopes to nuture a two-way arrangement with New Zealand

Gloucestershire director of coaching John Bracewell has revealed that a link-up with New Zealand Cricket smoothed the way to sign Ian Butler.

The 28-year-old paceman has been out of the first-class game since 2004 but has recovered from a serious back injury.

"We're trying to develop a relationship with New Zealand Cricket," Bracewell told BBC Radio Bristol.

"We're happy to take on any of their players who have been out of the game injured and are on the way back."

The former Black Caps coach added: "I know we can provide a service during New Zealand's winter where we can help guys get back into cricket.

"We've got a pretty good programme here with very good coaching and medical staff.

"It means that we share the cost with New Zealand Cricket. We're providing a service to them and hopefully we will get a good service in return."

Auckland-born Butler, who previously spent the summer of 2003 with Gloucestershire, joins the county's Twenty20 squad in time for Friday's opening fixture away to Glamorgan.

He has recent experience at the highest level, having played in three matches at the World Twenty20, taking 3-19 as his side beat Pakistan.

Gloucestershire have named a 13-man squad which does not include fast bowler Steve Kirby, who is suffering from back spasms.

Gloucestershire (from): Gidman, Porterfield, Franklin, Marshall, Ali, Taylor, Snell, Butler, Dent, Lewis, Banerjee, Hussain, Ireland.

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