Middlesex sign Vaas

Lord's bound: Chaminda Vaas will be back in county cricket next summer © Getty Images

Middlesex have confirmed the signing of Chaminda Vaas as one of their overseas players for 2007. The move had been expected after the club said they were searching for a swing bowler to compensate for the flat Lord's pitches.

The recent season was miserable for Middlesex as they were relegated in the Championship and Pro40. Vaas, 32, will bring the experience and skill of 307 Test wickets to an attack that has struggled to bowl teams out twice. Vaas has had earlier stints in county cricket with Worcestershire and Hampshire.

"It is a going to be a real challenge for me after Sri Lanka's tour of that country," said Vaas. "I am looking forward to a very competitive and enjoyable summer of cricket. The terms have been excellent, and the county has been very considerate with regards to my requests which has made life that much easier."

Their will be a new-look line-up with the ball next season with Johann Louw and Mohammad Ali being released by the club while Scott Styris, the New Zealand allrounder, won't be rejoining. However, Chad Keegan is still considering his options after being offered a new deal.

These decision were taken at the recent AGM but there was no news on a successor to Ben Hutton, who recently stood down as captain followed the poor season. Off the field, John Lever will be the club's new fast bowling coach.