Proteas seamer Vernon Philander has confirmed signing a Kolpak contract with Somerset in English county cricket.

Philander, who took four wickets on day two of the ongoing first Test against England at SuperSport Park in Centurion, will retire from all forms of international cricket at the end of this four-match series.

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‘Vernon is undoubtedly a genuinely world-class performer and we are delighted to have agreed terms with such a talented player. When the possibility of signing him presented itself, and considering the challenges that we feel lie ahead of us with regards to achieving our aspirations, we felt that it was too good an opportunity to miss,’ said Somerset director of cricket Andy Hurry.

‘To put it simply, he is one of the very best bowlers in the game and he would add quality to any team in the world. His experience and knowledge of the game will also be of huge benefit to our bowling group, especially the young players looking to break in to the first XI.’

Former Proteas fast bowler Morne Morkel and batsman Hashim Amla signed Kolpak contracts after retiring from international cricket. Both play for Surrey in the County Championship Division One.

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