Vaas signs for Middlesex

Sri Lankan seamer Chaminda Vaas has signed for Middlesex for the 2007 season.

The 32-year old has previously represented Hampshire and Worcestershire with differing degrees of success. However, he was glad to have signed for Middlesex: “I am delighted with the offer, I have always enjoyed the county scene, and playing for Middlesex is also very special because I know it is a very fine club. I am looking forward to a very competitive and enjoyable summer of cricket.”

The left armer replaces Scott Styris, who will not be returning to Lord’s next season. Middlesex were relegated to the second division in both forms of the game in 2006, and Vaas will be a big part of their push for promotion.

Chief executive Vinny Codrington was very happy to have signed Vaas, saying: “He is a world-class player who Sri Lanka have very kindly made available to us for next season. His bowling is ideally suited to the Lord’s wickets and he’s proved himself not only as a world-class bowler but also as a useful lower order batsman. We are thrilled he’s joining us.”

Middlesex have also been linked with Murali Kartik, who played for Lancashire during the close of the 2006 season. It has also been rumoured that Sanath Jayasuriya may be the side’s captain next year, but these have been denied by the club.