Cricket: Ryder signs with CD

Jesse Ryder will play for Central Districts next season.

Jesse Ryder is to return to his home province for New Zealand's 2015/16 summer of domestic cricket.

The all-rounder played for Otago in the 2014/15 season and is presently enjoying a successful season with Essex in the English County Championship.

Ryder's name will appear among the 14 players to be offered a domestic contract by Central Districts early next week.

Ryder said he was looking forward to returning to his home base at the end of the English season.

"CD gave me my first opportunity in cricket so I'm looking forward to returning and playing for the Stags again this summer."

The dynamic all-rounder has played more than 100 domestic matches in each of the three formats - although it is expected his involvement on this occasion will be restricted to short-form cricket: the Georgie Pie Super Smash and the Stags' defence of the Ford Trophy.

Central Stags general manager Lance Hamilton is delighted with Ryder's desire to return to where it all began as an 18-year-old in 2002/03, especially after the retirement last season of veteran Jamie How.

"We're keen to attract and retain players from our region whenever possible", said Mr Hamilton.

"Although Jesse's been playing elsewhere for a while, he's very definitely at home when he's with the Stags."