Lancashire have signed Proteas all-rounder Ryan McLaren as their overseas player for 2017.

McLaren has represented South Africa in all formats, particularly impressing in ODIs playing 54 matches and taking 77 wickets at an average of just 27.

The 33-year-old will be available for the whole season in all formats and will provide valuable experience to a youthful Lancashire squad.

Ryan has played in England before with Kent and more recently with Hampshire for which, last season, the all-rounder took 32 wickets and contributed with 832 runs at an average of over 55.

Over the course of his career, the South African has played 128 first-class matches, hitting six centuries at an average of 34 with the bat and 380 wickets at 27 with the ball.

Head Coach and Cricket Director Ashley Giles said, ‘We’re thrilled to bring Ryan into our squad for next year. He brings international experience to what is a relatively young, but extremely talented changing room.

‘He will certainly add depth to our seam bowling department but will also give us balance with the bat too. His record in both ODI and first-class cricket is outstanding and we look forward to welcoming him to Emirates Old Trafford.’

McLaren added, ‘I’m delighted to be joining up with Lancashire next year. It’s a big club and I can’t wait to start working with Ashley Giles and the squad at Emirates Old Trafford.

‘I’m looking forward to being a part of the squad in all competitions and hopefully win some more silverware for the club.’

Lancashire stalwart Alviro Petersen, a Kolpak player, has yet to reveal his plans for 2017.

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