Australia international Nathan McSweeney says the presence of Darren Lehmann as coach was the key reason behind him signing for Northamptonshire.

The South Australia captain – who played three Tests in 2024 – is available across all formats for the 2026 campaign and will make his county bow against Lancashire on Friday.

The 27-year-old has worked with Lehmann previously at Brisbane Heat in the Big Bash League and hopes reuniting with the former Australia left-hander will serve him well as he tries to force his way back into the international fold.

“The wickets, the Dukes ball, watching many of Australians come over in past years and do really well makes you want to get over there and test it out yourself,” he told BBC Radio Northampton.

“Hopefully I can play well for Northants and take a few lessons and learnings from county cricket back to Australia.

“I had Darren coaching me at the Brisbane Heat for three years. Great relationship with him and his son, Jake, who I play with in South Australia. I probably wouldn’t be here without Darren as coach.

“He’s played so much cricket over his journey. He’s seen so many games and he’s played really well. Obviously, he keeps reminding us that he averaged 70 for Yorkshire.

“So I’m looking forward to learning as I always do under Darren.”

Should Northants bat first at the County Ground on Friday, McSweeney’s first taste of the County Championship could be against England fast-bowling legend James Anderson, who is Lancashire captain this season.

McSweeney captained South Australia to glory in the Sheffield Shield final that finished on Monday, but he says he is raring to go despite that quick turnaround.

“The plan was always to play this first game, so I had a good sleep last night. I’ll be ready to go,” he added.

“Yeah, I’m really looking forward to [facing Anderson]. Obviously watching Jimmy play on TV for so many years, it’s going to be a great experience and obviously still a great bowler as well. So my work will be cut out for me, no doubt.

“I’m really looking forward to the experience of facing a superstar.”