Injury rules out Northamptonshire’s overseas signing Bird

The County’s overseas signing has had a career hampered by back injuries and, just under two weeks before the start of the English domestic season, he has been advised to take time away from the game to let his problems ease.

A statement from the club read: “Obviously this is disappointing news with the start of the cricket season less than two weeks away.

“However the club has been aware of Jackson’s potential ongoing injury for some time, having already amended his original contract in order for his workload to be managed more carefully to allow him a pre-season in Australia.”

An offer has been made to another pace bowler with Test match experience and the County hope to have that deal concluded very soon.