Yorkshire captain David Byas has declared his delight at the news that Australian batsman Greg Blewett has been signed for the county next season.

And he revealed that the Australian would open the batting with Michael Vaughan, allowing Byas to drop back to his No 3 spot.

"To have a player of Greg's ability available for the whole season will be a great boost," said Byas. "It means we keep our continuity with Australia and it is the perfect answer while Darren Lehmann is away."

Speaking from Adelaide, Blewett said: "The prospect of playing for Yorkshire, who are one of the greatest first class counties in England, is both challenging and exciting.

"I am certain that my approach and style of play will significantly contribute to the team's performance over the summer. I believe Yorkshire are on the verge of winning a number of trophies and I look forward eagerly to assisting them in achieving that goal."

Lehmann, who takes over from Jamie Siddons as captain of South Australia this winter, commented: "I am sure Greg will fit in very well at Yorkshire. He is a real team player with an excellent manner and is quite definitely one of the boys.

"I was asked by Yorkshire what I thought was the best option while I am away and I said I was certain they should sign Greg Blewett.

"I have played alongside him for six or seven years now and we are both out of the same mould. Greg is not in Australia's one-day side at the moment because they seem to have settled on their openers and he hopes playing for Yorkshire will help him to improve his game - as it has done for me.

"I think he is one of the best players Australia have ever produced and he should prove to be the perfect overseas signing for Yorkshire.

"I have got a busy time ahead of me now but it is fantastic that I am going to return to Yorkshire. I really enjoy my cricket with them and I have told Greg he will do the same."

Blewett will be with Yorkshire in time for the start of the 1999 season and may even join them on their pre-season tour of Durban and Cape Town.

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