Australian fast bowler Riley Meredith joins the Somerset for Blast campaign

Meredith, 27, will also be available to play in the club stage of the Metro Bank One-Day Cup, as well as a “managed number” of Vitality County Championship games.

“I’m looking forward to the challenge of playing under English conditions and I can’t wait to get started,” said Meredith. “Somerset are the current Vitality Blast champions and I will do everything I can to help them retain the title.”

To date, Meredith has played five T20Is for Australia, taking eight wickets at 23.50, and one ODI against the West Indies, all in 2021.

Throughout his T20 career, Meredith has taken 114 wickets in 91 matches, at an average of 25.42 with a best of 4 for 21 for the Hobart Hurricanes in the Big Bash League. He also represented Mumbai Indians and Punjab Kings in the IPL.

“Somerset are one of the biggest names in the English domestic game and I’m delighted to be able to take part in their tour this year,” he added.

Somerset’s director of cricket, Andy Hurry said: “We are delighted to have been able to sign a cricketer of Riley’s skill and experience. He bowls with real pace and skill and will add more experience and a different dimension to our bowling attack.

“He is determined to gain international and international recognition, and we look forward to him playing a key role for us this summer.”