Proteas spinner Keshav Maharaj to miss out on English county stint after freak injury

Maharaj ruptured his Achilles in unusual circumstances during last week's Test victory over the West Indies at the Wanderers, falling to the floor as he began celebrating a wicket.

The 33-year-old is now looking at a six-month lay-off, ending his hopes of a stint at Lord's.

Middlesex director of cricket, Alan Coleman, commented: "We are naturally extremely disappointed that Keshav will not be joining Middlesex this year after sustaining this freak injury and we are saddened to hear that he will face a significant absence from playing.

"It goes without saying that everyone at the club wishes him a speedy recovery. For us to lose Kesh so close to the start of the new season is a blow, however he wasn't scheduled to begin playing for us until late April, which buys us a little time to put Plan B into action.

"We will of course keep everyone updated on the situation regarding a replacement overseas player for the coming season."