DERBYSHIRE face competition from other counties in their attempt to sign an international star to boost their Twenty20 Cup chances.

In a bid to raise the profile of the competition, which has been expanded from 10 to 16 group matches next season, the England and Wales Cricket Board has allowed each county to sign additional overseas players.

Several counties have already announced signings. Middlesex have recruited Adam Gilchrist, Hampshire moved for Shahid Afridi, Leicestershire have Brad Hodge and Somerset turned to Cameron White.

Derbyshire also have a particular player in mind – unnamed as yet by head of cricket John Morris – and have made him an offer but they are not the only county interested.

"We are just waiting to hear the response to our offer but I do know other counties are in for him," said Morris.

"That is as much as I can do for now. If he turns us down, there are other options open.

"I would like to get it signed and announced like others are doing but that is out of my control. There is still plenty of time to sort it out."

Derbyshire's first game in the Twenty20 Cup is on June 2 and the group stages go on until July 18, followed by quarter-finals and the finals day at Hampshire's Rose Bowl on August 14.

The venue has been decided for Derbyshire's first-ever trip to the Netherlands for a competitive fixture.

Their ECB 40 League match on July 30 is to be played at the Sportpark Thurlede in Schiedam, near Rotterdam.