Gilchrist has joined his former Australia teammate and captain Ricky Ponting as the latest international star to sign up with the League.
"I am very excited to be on board with CPL, and am looking forward to coming back and playing cricket in one of the most beautiful places on the planet," said Gilchrist.
"The CPL will feature some of the world's best cricketers and I can't wait to test my skills and play in what is going to be a dynamic and exciting competition," he added.
"I always have fond memories of my time playing cricket in the Caribbean and visiting all of the stunning locations and attractions that are on offer for the players and spectators alike.
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"Plus, I love playing the Twenty20 format and there is absolutely no better place anywhere to do this than the West Indies," he said.
As many as 90 players will be contracted to play in the CPL. Each of the six franchise teams will be comprised of 15 players. All teams are required to have a minimum number of local players from that particular country.
More international players will be announced in the coming weeks, according to CPL organisers, as plans kick into high gear in preparation for the biggest sporting event in the Caribbean.