Rudolph abandons Derbyshire plans

Jacques Rudolph, the South Africa batsman, has been forced to abandon his plans to join Derbyshire for the upcoming season, after it was confirmed he is to undergo shoulder surgery.

Rudolph has been passed fit to play in the three Tests against Australia, who are in South Africa and currently involved in a one-day series, after which he will have the operation.

"I am desperately disappointed not to be able to fulfil my commitment to Derbyshire this summer," Rudolph said. "I was very excited about joining the club but I have been advised that the shoulder does need surgery. I would certainly be keen to talk to the club again, maybe later this year and see what opportunities there may be for 2007." Derbyshire signed Rudolph and the Pakistani, Mohammad Yousuf, last December, and Derbyshire's chief executive, Tom Sears, expressed his disappointment at losing the services of Rudolph.

"This is obviously hugely disappointing for everyone, the club, our members and supporters and Jacques himself," he said. "We have been looking at what options are available to us to replace Jacques if the worst case scenario was confirmed. We have already made contact with several players and hope to announce a replacement soon."