Gloucestershire have signed Australian Peter Handscomb to play in all formats this summer.

The 23-year-old top-order batsman, who can also keep wicket, was one of just two centurions in this winter's Big Bash League (playing for Melbourne Stars against eventual champions Perth Scorchers) and he will be joining the other - Michael Klinger - at Nevil Road.

Handscomb, who has also been in good form for Victoria in the Sheffield Shield, has English parents and holds a British passport, but has already played for Australia at U19 and A team level.

He said: "It has always been an ambition of mine to play county cricket, and I was delighted when Gloucestershire expressed an interest in me joining them."

Gloucestershire coach Richard Dawson said: "It is brilliant for the club to get Peter for the season.

"He's coming off the back of an exceptional season with Victoria in the Sheffield Shield and also in the Big Bash League, where he made headlines with his hundred for the Melbourne Stars.

"This is a good opportunity for him to showcase his talents in English conditions - especially with Australia over here for the Ashes - and we believe we can help him to continue his development."