South Africa spinner Maharaj joins Lancashire for final Championship matches

The 28-year-old bowler- who has played 22 Test matches for South Africa, taking 90 wickets at 27.65 - goes straight into the squad to face Worcestershire at Southport

Lancashire have announced the signing of South Africa spinner Keshav Maharaj for the remainder of the County Championship campaign.

The 28-year-old bowler has played 22 Test matches for South Africa, taking 90 wickets at 27.65.

Maharaj’s innings figures of 9 for 129 against Sri Lanka in July are the second best in South Africa’s Test history.

The South African will be included in the squad to face Worcestershire at Southport this week.

Lancashire's final three fixtures are all on the road with visits to Somerset, Yorkshire and Hampshire.

Head coach Glen Chapple, said: “We’re really pleased that Keshav has joined the Club. He’s a world class spinner and will strengthen our bowling attack for the final four Championship games.

“He is an international bowler with experience of bowling in English conditions and we’re looking forward to welcoming him to Emirates Old Trafford.”

Maharaj said: “I’m thrilled to be signing for Lancashire for the remainder of the season. Having previously played in England with South Africa, it’s been an ambition of mine to return and play county cricket. 

“I’m very much looking forward to joining up with the squad and hopefully I can make a significant contribution to help the team during my time here.”