O’Neill, who has an impressive first-class record of 94 wickets at 19.91, will only be eligible for a short-term visa but will cover Dane Patterson’s absence at the start of the season and his availability for the South African is uncertain. After a test recall earlier this year.
Notts manager Peter Moores said: “We’re really excited to have Fergus on board as he has been a real success over the past few seasons in Victoria. We hope this is just the beginning of his relationship with Notts.” .
“Due to visa restrictions we can only secure his services on a short-term basis, but he seems to be improving all the time and we think his bowling style will suit the early season conditions in England well.”
“His strengths are consistency and lateral movement, which are ideal skills to complement the rest of our bowling unit. He is also good with the bat and will strengthen our middle and lower order where runs are important, especially early in the season.
“He will actually replace Dane Patterson who will not be with us for the start of the season due to our desire to re-enter the Test arena and strengthen our batting. “We have opted for a slightly different style of player.
“But it is worth highlighting what a fantastic servant the Dane has been for the club. His record is outstanding. He has built a great legacy with Notts in just a few years and remains a hugely popular figure in the dressing room.”
“The opportunity to play for England is really exciting and I’m looking forward to it,” O’Neill said. “It’s very special to call Nottinghamshire home with Trent Bridge. It has a real Australian aura and I can’t wait to get out there.
“I hope we have the right ball characteristics for the conditions. We will head into the Championship after a summer in Australia with a performance that always helps.”
Notts finished eighth in Championship Division One last season and were promoted from the Second Division last summer.
