Paul Franks has secured a deal to represent Midwest Rhinos in Zimbabwean domestic cricket.

The Notts all-rounder, currently in Las Vegas with club captain Chris Read, was convinced to commit to a spell in Africa by former Derbyshire Director of Cricket David Houghton.

"Dave was trying to gauge some interest – if anyone would be keen to go over there and play so I went to meet him to see what would be involved and the type of cricket that would be played," said Franks.

"I went away to think about it and when I said 'yes', I was put in contact with the national chairman of selectors who put me in contact with the franchises who were interested.

"Zimbabwe want to use cricket as a vehicle to get back on their feet and if I can help with that then I will be happy to.”

Franks attributed his excellent form in Nottinghamshire colours last season to a fruitful off-season spell in Australia where he gained significant match practice and hopes that his latest commitment will help him to build on his prowess in 2011.

"The opportunity to play competitive cricket in our off-season is something that shouldn't be passed up,” he said.

"A lot has changed in Zimbabwe since I was there with England ‘A‘ in 1999 but the important thing is to not let that get in the way of this opportunity.

Franks’s Notts teammate Charlie Shreck had been lined up to represent Mashonaland Eagles in the same competition but withdrew amid injury concerns. Shreck is presently in negotiations with Notts over a new deal.