Middlesex have bolstered their bowling options for the NatWest T20 Blast with the signing of South Africa international Kyle Abbott.
The 27-year-old paceman, who represented the Proteas in the recent World Cup, will arrive at Lord’s at the end of May following his Indian Premier League commitments with Chennai Super Kings.
Abbott will be available for seven South Group fixtures, starting with the home clash against Kent Spitfires on May 28, before linking up with his country at the end of June ahead of their tour of Bangladesh.
He has taken 58 wickets in 64 Twenty20s during his career and snared seven scalps in 12 games while playing for Hampshire’s in last year’s Blast.
Middlesex managing director of cricket Angus Fraser, who has already secured the services of Australian batsman Joe Burns for the Blast, said: “Firstly, we take this opportunity to thank Cricket South Africa for their assistance.
“During the winter the Middlesex CCC cricket department identified that our priority for a second T20 Blast player was a high-quality fast bowler, and we believe in Kyle we have signed someone who will significantly strengthen our T20 side.
“Kyle continues to highlight what a top bowler he is. He was exceptional during the recent World Cup, where he took nine wickets in four games at an average of 14 and conceded just over four runs per over. In a high-scoring tournament these were outstanding figures.
“Everybody at Middlesex is looking forward to working with Kyle and I am sure he will enjoy playing in front of big crowds at Lord’s.
“It is unfortunate we cannot have him for the entire tournament but we are not the only county to have these issues.
“With this in mind we are already speaking to people about Kyle’s replacement for the final six group T20 Blast matches.”
Abbott, whose deal is subject to Cricket South Africa clearance, added: “I am delighted to have signed for Middlesex for the T20 campaign.
“I enjoyed my time in England last year immensely and I am looking forward to a new and exciting challenge with Middlesex.
“It is an honour to have signed for such an illustrious club and I look forward to pulling on the shirt for the first time.”