Hashim Amla: Derbyshire sign South Africa batsman

Hashim Amla became the first South African to score a Test triple century when he hit 311 not out against England in 2012

Derbyshire have signed South Africa Test captain Hashim Amla as cover for overseas player Martin Guptill.

Amla, who has scored more than 6,500 runs in 82 Tests, will join from 10 May and is available for two Championship matches and three T20 Blast games.

"Hashim is a world-class batsman and a proven match winner," said elite performance director Graeme Welch.

"He's a player I have worked with before and I know he will be a great influence on the younger lads."

Welch, who was appointed to his current role in January, added: "He will also bring a wealth of experience to the side as we look to compete at the highest level in both red-ball and white-ball cricket."

Amla's last spell in English county cricket was with Surrey in 2013, having previously played for Essex and Nottinghamshire.

"I'm delighted to have the opportunity to play in England this summer," said the 32-year-old, who made his Test debut in 2004.

"Derbyshire are an ambitious club with an exciting young team and I've enjoyed working with Graeme before.

"I'm looking forward to making a strong contribution in both four-day and Twenty20 cricket."

Guptill has been called up to the New Zealand squad for their Test series with England, which begins next month.