Lechlade have signed a World Cup winner to solve their overseas player crisis.

The Glos/Wilts have brought South Africa under 19 international Bradley Dial, who hit his country’s winning runs in this year’s ICC Under 19s World Cup.

After Sylvester Joseph and Juanra van Wyk were both unable to sign due to visa issues Dial became the third overseas player to agree terms with the club. The 19-year-old flew into Heathrow on Wednesday and will make his debut on Saturday at the Manor Ground against Tewkesbury.

With the season having started club treasurer Charlie Payne and first team captain Joe Breet had to act quickly to find a replacement after van Wyk was unable to link up.

Payne and Breet focused on players who held British passports to avoid further visa issues and when Dial’s availability became apparent they made their move. “Joe with his South African contacts heard that Bradley was available and looking to come to England to establish some contacts in this country’s County game.

“We made contact with him and we were very impressed with his attitude and playing record to date and a deal was done to secure him for our 2014 campaign.”

Until recently the right-handed middle order batsman and useful spinner was under contract with Gauteng in his home country.The young South African scored the winning runs in the final of this year’s Under 19s World Cup against Pakistan.

Dial said: “Lechlade are a very ambitious club and I’m sure success for them is imminent. I’m looking forward to being a part of it.”

Breet commenting on their new acquisition said. “When I found out that Bradley was available it was a no brainer for me. Bradley is a quality batsman who can also bowl. He is young and hungry, hopefully this will be the beginning of something special for him.