County line up Kleinveldt to fill overseas slot

The South African seam bowler, who has made 20 international appearances including four Test matches, had been identified as a potential replacement in case the Bird deal fell through.

And with that scenario coming to pass, all efforts have been channelled towards a player who briefly crossed the club’s radar prior to Trent Copeland being recruited this time last year.

Speaking about the negotiations, chief executive David Smith said: “We’ve agreed terms in principle and are waiting to hear back from Cricket South Africa.

“It’s a bit in the lap of the Gods as all these deals tend to be but we’re very hopeful that Rory will come as he’s the kind of cricketer who could do a good job for us.”

As things stand, a side with no overseas bowler and David Willey on the sidelines with a back problem looks significantly under strength and should the Kleinveldt deal be agreed, the intention will be to have him available for the County Championship opener against Durham on April 13.