Rayner joins Middlesex on loan

The Sussex offspinner Ollie Rayner has joined Middlesex on loan for the start of the 2011 domestic season. Rayner, 25, will join the squad when he returns from the MCC tour of Namibia in early March, and will take a full part in the club's pre-season preparations.

"Ollie will be a welcome addition to Middlesex's cricket staff for the start of the 2011 season," said the club's Director of Cricket, Angus Fraser. "He is a talented young cricketer with an excellent work ethic who is improving with each season."

Rayner will be available for selection for the first four rounds of the County Championship, as well as five CB40 matches. The loan agreement will then be reviewed in mid-May prior to England's international commitments.

The departure of Shaun Udal left Middlesex needing to strengthen its spin bowling resources, and Rayner fitted the bill, having taken 18 first-class wickets at 22 in 2010. He is capable with the bat - he averaged 32 in 2010 - and is an excellent fielder, especially at slip.