BBL: Kiwi batsman Jesse Ryder joins Melbourne Renegades

New Zealand batsman Jesse Ryder has joined the Big Bash League after signing with the Melbourne Renegades for the upcoming Australian summer.

 Ryder, 29, has been granted leave from Otago cricket board, to play with Aussie Renegades.

“Respect and appreciation to Otago cricket for their flexibility,” Ryder said.

“I’m stoked and grateful to be taking part in one of the best T20 competitions in the world.

“The Renegades have some class players so I’m looking forward to contributing.”

The left-hander averages 27.40 at a strike-rate of 145.90 in T20 format, he is currently playing for Essex in the English County Cricket and likely to be joining the Melbourne Renegades in mid-January for four matches and the finals.