Somerset acquire Surrey's Amar Virdi on a one-match loan

In the latest development, Surrey's off-spinner Amar Virdi has joined Somerset on a one-match deal for the upcoming first-class fixture against Lancashire.

Virdi, 23, is yet to play a County Championship for Surrey this summer, with off-spinner Will Jacks piping him in the pecking order.

With Somerset's premium spinner and England international Jack Leach not available, the Taunton-based county has roped in Virdi for their forthcoming fixture against Lancashire at Southport.

Virdi has enough experience working alongside the top brass of Somerset.

He worked with the club's director of cricket, Andy Hurry, during his time with the England U-19s. Head coach Jason Kerr has also worked with the off-spinner during the England Lions program.

Speaking on the development, Hurry said:

"We have a strong awareness of his ability with the ball and his character. He is a quality spinner with genuine international aspirations, and we are delighted to be able to welcome him into our environment,"

Meanwhile, former England captain and the current Surrey director of cricket, Alec Stewart, said that this is a good opportunity for Virdi to get some much-wanted game-time with red-ball after having spent most of his time on the bench this summer.

"This is a perfect opportunity for Amar to play some first-team cricket, having not yet featured in our County Championship side this season," said Stewart.

Somerset are currently placed at the second-last place in the Division 01 points table, having won just two matches out of seven.

Lancashire, on the other hand, are placed third after having notched up three victories and just one defeat in 8 outings.

Somerset will lock horns with Lancashire on Monday, July 11, and the former will look to make amends for a poor start to their season so far with an impressive performance at Southport.