Australia opener Phil Hughes will finally join up with Worcestershire this week and could make his debut for the county in Sunday's Clydesdale Bank 40 clash with former side Middlesex.
Hughes had originally agreed to join the Royals for the entire 2012 campaign but was required to be part of a Cricket Australia training camp during the first part of the season.
He is due to arrive at New Road on Thursday as a replacement for fellow Aussie Michael Klinger and will be looking to score heavily in a bid to regain his place in the national side.
"We are looking forward to having Phil with us and he has a massive point to prove," said Worcestershire director of cricket Steve Rhodes.
"He is desperate to do well and force his way back into the Australian team which is where he ought to be. I'm sure he will be exciting to watch."
Worcestershire chief executive David Leatherdale added: "Phil will arrive in England early on Thursday, will practice on Friday and will be in contention for Sunday's game."
South Australia captain Klinger is set to return to England as part of the Australian 'A' team squad later this summer.
