Kevin Pietersen will return to South African cricket after the Dolphins signed him for the Ram Slam T20 Challenge this year.

The former Maritzburg College pupil, who left South Africa in 2001 to ply his trade in England where he went on to become the highest international run scorer (13 779 runs in all formats) of all time for his adopted country, is delighted to return to the place where his career first started and hopes to make a significant impact during his time with the Dolphins.

‘I’m very excited to return to Durban in a few weeks’ time and contribute towards the Sunfoil Dolphins’ cause,’ Pietersen said.

‘Having grown up in KZN it is obviously a place that means something quite special to me and to have the opportunity to play there again is something I’m really looking forward to.’

Now considered an international Twenty20 specialist, Pietersen has played pivotal roles in the IPL for the Deccan Chargers, Delhi Daredevils, Royal Challengers Bangalore and Sunrisers Hyderabad; and then for St Lucia Zouks (Caribbean Premier League), Melbourne Stars (Big Bash League) and Surrey (T20 Blast) in recent years.

‘The Ram Slam T20 looks to be an exciting tournament and I’m thrilled to have the opportunity to be a part of the action for the first time this summer.

‘The Dolphins have some talented individuals and hopefully I can contribute towards the team’s success during my time with them,’ said Pietersen.

For the Sunfoil Dolphins head coach Lance Klusener, Pietersen’s signing is an exciting one that is set to help his charges’ challenge for the title they clinched in 2013-14.

‘It’s very exciting to have a player of Kevin’s ability join us for a portion of the RAM Slam T20 tournament,’ Klusener said.

‘We’ve won the tournament before and hopefully his presence will aid in us challenging for the title once more.’