The English county season is all set to begin in early April, and Warwickshire have roped in South African opening batsman Pieter Malan as their overseas pro for the Championship games.

Malan has played three Test matches for the Proteas, all against England. The 31-year-old scored an impressive fighting 84 on international debut, but hasn’t played for the Proteas in over a year. However, he has a respectable reputation as a consistent performer for the Cobras. He will bring a wealth of experience to the table and provide handy guidance to the up-and-coming.

This is Malan’s first ever chance to play in the county circuit. Previously, he has played plenty of club cricket in England for Ramsbottom in the Lancashire Premier League, amassing plenty of runs. Now comes a chance to up his game and potentially make the situation interesting as far as an international comeback is concerned.

The County Championship gets underway for Warwickshire at home against Derbyshire, on April 8.