CHRIS Gayle will make a whirlwind impact at Worcestershire, according to chief executive Mark Newton.

The West Indian Test star checks in at New Road for his first stint in county cricket, replacing Zander de Bruyn who joins up with South Africa 'A' after next Monday's totesport League clash against Hampshire.

Jamaican left-hand batsman Gayle, 25, is regarded as an authentic world-class performer in both disciplines. He boasts a Test batting average of 39.39 with a highest innings of 317, smashed against South Africa at Antigua in April, and his effective right-hand off-break has yielded 38 Test victims.

Gayle's one-day international exploits are even better, averaging 39.29 from the bat in 120 matches and 100 wickets at 30.95.

The elegant opener makes his debut next Wednesday when the Royals clash with Lancashire Lightning at Old Trafford in the totesport League.

Newton is delighted with the capture of one of West Indies' leading stars.

He said: "We are very pleased with this signing. Chris is a match-winner and an entertaining player. He is one of my favourite players to watch.

"Hopefully, he will strengthen our batting and most people will say it needs a little bit of strengthening. He's a terrific opening batsman and we expect him to make a huge impact, especially in one-day cricket.

"He's also a very capable spin bowler and regularly bowls at the death for West Indies in one-day internationals.

"With the wickets getting drier in the remainder of the summer, it won't be seaming about as much and Chris has the ability to really turn the ball."