McLaren signs for Dolphins

South Africa allrounder Ryan McLaren has been signed by Dolphins and will join them from May 1, 2014. McLaren had been representing Knights since 2005.

"I have been playing for Chevrolet Knights for 10 years of my cricket career and was looking for a change in environment," McLaren said. "I'm looking forward to the new challenge and I hope that this new opportunity will bring about a positive change to my cricket career."

Dolphins coach Lance Klusener said he was happy to have one of South Africa's "premier allrounders" with the franchise. "Ryan McLaren is one of the premier allrounders in the country and his decision to play for the Sunfoil Dolphins next season is exciting news for both fans and the team," Klusener said. "The way he plays his cricket and what he will bring to the team will compliment us as a team very well."

In 47 first-class matches for Knights, McLaren has scored 2287 runs at an average of 35.73 and has 169 wickets with a bowling average of 24.96. In 76 List A matches, he has a better batting average at 44.35 for 1375 runs and 97 wickets at 26.55.

McLaren had suffered a mild concussion during the first Test against Australia in Centurion when he was hit on the head by a bouncer from Mitchell Johnson which ruled him out of the rest of the series and he has not played since then.