HARARE, Feb 21: Zimbabwean rebel cricketer Andy Blignaut has rejoined his country's cricket squad and signed a contract, following his axing last year over a row about racial bias in selection, Zimbabwe Cricket said Monday.

Blignaut is one of 15 mainly senior players who were sacked after they demanded the reinstatement of former captain Heath Streak, who was dismissed in April for objecting to certain members of the country's national selection panel.

"Former Zimbabwe all-rounder Andy Blignaut today (Monday) signed a contract to play again for Zimbabwe," the country's cricket union said in a statement. "I am coming back unconditionally to play," Blignaut was quoted as saying in the statement.

"I would like to play the game for Zimbabwe at international level and prove to myself that I can move up the rankings." The 26-year-old left-handed batsman and right arm medium fast bowler last played for Zimbabwe during the February-March tour against Bangladesh last year.

Back from Tasmania where he unsuccessfully tried to forge a career, Blignaut could be rushed back into action later this week in the third and final A-team Test against Bangladesh. But he is unlikely to join the squad currently touring South Africa. -AFP