McLaren signs for Kent

Kent have signed all-rounder Ryan McLaren on a one-year contract for the 2007 season as a Kolpak player.

McLaren, 23, who currently plays for the Gestetner Diamond Eagles based in Bloemfontein, is a left-hand bat, right-arm medium-fast bowler who has played for South Africa Under-19.

Kent chairman of cricket Graham Johnson said: “We are delighted that Ryan has agreed to play for us next year.

“Since the end of the 2006 season we have spent time looking at the balance of our bowling attack and have recognised the need for back-up in the seam department.

“In an ideal world we would have chosen an England-qualified player, however, our search did not produce any outstanding, available talent.

“Ryan offers us all round abilities and will add a great deal to the squad.

"Taking him on for one year only will enable us to review the progress of our younger bowlers and those emerging from the Academy ahead of the 2008 season.”