Hawks draft in Fortuin as Dawson replacement

Spin-bowling all-rounder Bjorn Fortuin has played 25 T20s for South Africa

Hampshire Hawks have signed South African spin-bowling all-rounder Bjorn Fortuin on a short-term T20 Blast deal.

The 30-year-old will be available for three South Group matches from 5-8 June and joins the Hawks after Liam Dawson's call-up to England men's T20 squad to face West Indies that same week.

Fortuin joins compatriots Dewald Brevis and Lhuan-dre Pretorius in the Hawks' T20 ranks.

"I'm really pleased to be joining Hampshire Hawks for this year's Blast. The club has seen great success in T20 cricket and I hope I can help get the team off to a great start this summer," Fortuin told the club website.

Fortuin has played 25 T20 matches for South Africa, taking 20 wickets with an economy of under eight runs per over and has scored 76 runs with the bat.

Giles White, director of cricket, added: "Bjorn is an experienced cricketer and will be an excellent addition to our side while Liam is away on international duty. He will play the same role as Liam and slot in for the games that he is away."

Wicketkeeper and opening batter Pretorius has been called up to play for South Africa A on their current tour of the West Indies but will be available for the Hawks from 13 June until the end of the competition.

The Hawks begin their Blast campaign at home to Essex on Friday.