BBC SPORT | CRICKET | Ngam denied county move

South African cricket chiefs have moved swiftly to stop talented fast bowler Mfuneko Ngam from playing county cricket.

After just one Test match for his country, the Xhosa cricketer from the eastern Cape has been offered a national contract by the United Cricket Board of South Africa.

In a statement, the board said: "We want to give him security with a contract but also to retain some control over his movements over the next couple of years."

Ngam, 21, made his South Africa debut in the third and final Test against New Zealand in Johannesburg.

Dr Ali Bacher. Allsport.
Bacher wants to nurture Ngam in South Africa
He was timed at more than 140 kph (87mph) in two impressive spells, taking two wickets for 34 runs.

Former South Africa coach Bob Woolmer, now in charge of Warwickshire, is believed to be among several county coaches who have asked about the fast bowler's availability next season.

UCBSA managing director Ali Bacher said: "Mfuneko has an exciting future in South African cricket.

"We do not believe it would be in his interests to play county cricket in the near future."


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