Lancashire unable to retain Faf du Plessis

	Faf Du Plessis will not play for Lancashire in 2010 © Getty Images Enlarge
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Lancashire have confirmed they will not be able to retain Faf Du Plessis, their Kolpak player, for the 2010 season after losing an appeal following changes in immigration criteria.

"This is a very disappointing outcome for not only Faf but the county," Mike Watkinson, Lancashire's cricket director, said. "We accept the change in the immigration criteria and support the long term objectives associated with this decision. However, it's a shame that certain players of quality who have demonstrated genuine commitment to English cricket and add something to our game will be lost to county cricket. His contributions both as a player and clubman will by be missed by all associated with Lancashire and we wish him well with his cricketing career."

Lancashire coach Peter Moores also said the development was a "real disappointment". "Not only is Faf a very talented cricketer, but during his two years at Lancashire was lauded by everyone in English cricket for his fielding brilliance. His positive energy and enthusiastic approach to the job at hand will be sorely missed and I speak on behalf of everyone in the dressing room when I thank Faf for his unwavering commitment and his contribution to the club and its supporters."

Moores said the club had prepared themselves for this scenario and had made arrangements to make up for du Plessis' absence.