South African batsman Herschelle Gibbs has chosen to play for his home team Cape Cobras, instead of Indian Premier League franchise Deccan Chargers, in the upcoming Champions League Twenty20 tournament.

Gibbs is included in the initial 20-member squad of Cape Cobras announced by Omar Henry, convener of selectors for the Cape Cobras. South Africa captain Graeme Smith will lead the team in the much awaited tournament, which will be played in India from October 8 to 23.

Gibbs was released by Deccan Chargers as they would have to pay an amount of US $200,000 to his home team to retain him in their team.

Cape Cobras CEO Andre Odendaal said that Deccan Chargers officials had confirmed not to include Gibbs in their squad and they are excited by naming Gibbs in their team as he would help them to win the Champions League in India.

Cape Cobras 20 members squad includes Graeme Smith (Captain), Derek Brand, Ryan Canning, Henry Davids, Jean-Paul Duminy, Sybrand Engelbrecht, Herschelle Gibbs, Claude Henderson, Rory Kleinveldt, Charl Langeveldt, Richard Levi, Carl Nieuwoudt, Justin Ontong, Vernon Philander, Francois Plaatjies, Andrew Puttick, Gurshwin Rabie, Leonard van Wyk, Stiaan van Zyl and Monde Zondeki.