Ace's batsman Lou Vincent batting during his record breaking Twenty20 century in 2010. Photo: Andrew Cornaga
Former Black Cap Lou Vincent will play his first game of cricket since having his life ban lifted in next year's Black Clash.
After serving a 10- year ban, Vincent is being welcomed back to cricket.
Given formal recognition of the end of his exile in August by NZ Cricket, Vincent will now make his playing return in the T20 Black Clash in Christchurch on January 18.
Vincent was handed a life ban for his part in a match fixing scandal in 2014, and openly spoken about his regret.
His ban was lifted last year following widespread support from the cricketing community, allowing him to return to playing and coaching at grassroots level.
But now the olive branch has been extended even further, and Vincent will reunite with a number of former teammates for the annual battle between cricket and rugby.
Whether it was scoring a ton on debut, losing his trousers fielding in the outfield, or gifting his shoes to a young fan, Vincent was always an entertainer on and off the pitch.
Lou Vincent with a young cricket fan in 2010. Photo: photosport
Vincent, who scored 2413 runs in 103 ODIs and represented New Zealand in 23 tests and nine T20Is, said a return to playing was something he never thought would be possible.
"I'm incredibly grateful to everyone who has helped make this happen. As I've said before, life throws everyone curve balls and it is the support of our families, friends and communities that gets us through. I really can't wait to get out there with some old mates and try to smash a couple of balls out of the park. This is another chance to give something back to the game I love."
Former teammate Daniel Vettori said Vincent has paid his dues.
"Lou was a fantastic teammate who played the game with incredible passion and energy. It is well documented what Louis went through, but to be part of welcoming him back to the cricket community after so long away and dedicating his life to rectify what happened in the past, is exciting for all of us."
NZC Players Association chief executive Heath Mills said Vincent deserved forgiveness.
"He made mistakes, owned up to them, and dedicated himself to doing whatever he could to put things right. It's really heartwarming to see the way he has been accepted back by the sport. It's a lesson that our mistakes don't have to define us - which is important because very few of us are perfect."