GLOUCESTERSHIRE have signed Australian pace bowler Brendan Drew for just two matches in a bid to boost their Pro40 League title hopes.

The 24-year-old from New South Wales, who has been playing in the Lancashire League this summer, made his debut in last night's 40-over win over Middlesex at the County Ground and will also feature in Saturday's match against Worcestershire at New Road.

Gloucestershire chief executive Tom Richardson explained: "We lost our overseas signing, Marcus North, earlier than expected because of his selection for Australia A and the opportunity was there to sign a short-term replacement.

"Brendan has taken 60 wickets for Lowerhouse in the Lancashire League this season and he has agreed to play two games for us in the Pro40. There are no plans beyond that."

Drew plays for Tasmania back home and made his first-class debut for them in 2005. Reputed to have modelled his action on that of Glenn McGrath, he was invited to join Australia's academy in 2007 after a successful Pura Cup campaign with his club.

He was also named in his country's preliminary squad for the inaugural Twenty20 World Cup without making the final party. His best first class figures are 6-94 for Tasmania against Western Australia.