Clark Kent-bound

Stuart Clark will be eager to press his claims for Ashes selection during his early-season stint at Kent

Kent have signed Australia seamer Stuart Clark as their overseas player for the early part of the season.

The 32-year-old, who is currently recovering from the elbow injury which kept him out of the back-to-back Test series against South Africa, will be available until the start of June.

Kent have been keen to bolster their bowling options following their relegation to the Second Division of the LV County Championship last year, and the departure of Pakistan pace bowler Yasir Arafat to Sussex.

Clark, who starred during a brief spell with Hampshire in 2007, will be keen to remain in the Australia selectors’ thoughts ahead of the Ashes series against England, which starts in July.

He has taken 90 wickets at an average of under 23 in 22 Tests since making his debut in 2006.

Kent chairman of cricket Graham Johnson: “Stuart is a tremendous character and has a great record. He is a genuine wicket-taker and will bring a great amount to the side.”