Kemp signs for Kent

Justin Kemp has signed for Kent as their second overseas player. The allrounder will line up alongside fellow South African Martin van Jaarsveld and he will be available for his new county's championship match against Surrey, at Tunbridge Wells, which starts Wednesday 25 May.

Graham Johnson, Kent's chairman, was understandably delighted to have snapped up the big-hitting Kemp, who made an explosive return to one-day international cricket when he bludgeoned 80 from 50 balls to lift South Africa to a series win against England in February. "When we learnt that Justin was available and keen to play for Kent for the rest of the season we realised we had the opportunity to add a player who can significantly contribute with bat, ball and in the field in all forms of cricket.," said Johnson. "His addition gives us a squad with a great deal of flexibility and the selectors have a range of options at their disposal to meet different match circumstances.

"I am naturally very excited at the prospect of playing for Kent," Kemp added. "At this stage in my career it is important that I continue to play competitive cricket at the highest level. Kent has given me the opportunity to do this and I hope I can make a real contribution this season and help play a part in the longer term development of the club."

Kemp, 27, has also represented South Africa in three Tests.