Lisburn have signed South African Cody Chetty as their overseas professional for the 2016 season.

The 24-year-old batsman, who represents the Sunfoil Dolphins in the South African franchise competition, is a replacement for his compatriot Heinrich Klaasen, who pulled out of a switch to Wallace Park because of injury.

Chetty has an impressive domestic pedigree, boasting a first-class batting average of over 35 and has struck five centuries in the longer form of the game.

Chetty gained his initial first-class experience with KwaZulu-Natal at age 17 and represented South Africa at under-19 and ‘A’ team level.

A Lisburn spokesman said: “While we are disappointed that Henrik had to withdraw because of injury we are delighted to have secured a more than able replacement in Cody. We are looking forward to seeing him in April and we’re sure he will make a good impression on the pitch and while working in our restructured youth coaching system.”

Lisburn are under the new captaincy of Adam Berry this season, with the young batsman having succeeded long-time skipper David Simpson.

Chetty is one of six South Africans in the NCU Premier League this summer. He joins Justin Kemp (CIYMS), Cobus Pienaar (Waringstown), Pieter Malan (North Down), Juan Theron (Instonians) and Pat Botha (Carrickfergus).