Steve Waugh will return to county cricket following an absence of 14 years, after agreeing to join Kent for the final month of the season. Waugh, who replaces fellow Australian Andrew Symonds, will make his debut in a Norwich Union League floodlit match against Leicestershire on August 21. "We are thrilled that Steve has agreed to play for us for the rest of the season," said Kent's director of cricket Ian Brayshaw. "We are obviously sad to see Andrew go, but are delighted to have been able to secure the services of such an experienced cricketer to help us in our push for success. It is a great boost for everyone at the club."

Waugh, who has taken advantage of a rule-change in county cricket which permits the signing of a replacement in the event of international commitments, last played in English domestic cricket in 1988, when he turned out for Somerset. No longer required for Australia's one-day side, he is looking for some match practice ahead of Australia's three-Test series with Pakistan in September.

"I am looking forward to the opportunity to play some tough cricket and this stint will provide excellent preparation for the upcoming season," said Waugh. "It has been 14 years since I last played county cricket, so it is quite exciting and I look forward to making a strong contribution at Kent."

Waugh is not the only high-profile name to be popping in on the county circuit. Javagal Srinath has agreed terms with Leicestershire for a three-week stint, while Mushtaq Ahmed will replace his fellow Pakistani, Saqlain Mushtaq, at Surrey. Matthew Elliott, the former Australian opener, is being pursued by Yorkshire, while Waugh's twin brother, Mark, is close to signing for Essex.

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