Somerset have successfully finalised the recruitment of former Proteas all-rounder on a Kolpak contract.
Philander had agreed personal terms with the county last year, but the two-year contract was subject to the England and Wales Cricket Board’s approval, which has since happened.
‘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 for 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.
‘The addition of Vernon to our bowling unit will enable us to continue to manage the workloads of all of our quality seamers through the demands of a full and demanding season even more effectively.’
The veteran Philander retired from international cricket earlier this month, after the Proteas’ 3-1 Test series defeat to England.
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