SOMERSET director of cricket Matt Maynard has confirmed that Pakistan international Fakhar Zaman will not be joining the club as planned.

Speaking after the six-wicket defeat to Kent on Saturday, he said: "The PCB have called back their centrally contracted players who have been playing in the CPL or county cricket, of which Fakhar is one.

"His visa has come through and he was all set to get on a flight tomorrow, but that's no longer the case and unfortunately he won't be joining us.

"I think I've found a replacement, who is a similar type of player and can slot into the top order."

The opening batsman was due to join the club in the wake of Corey Anderson's return to New Zealand due to injury, but his arrival was halted as he waited for a visa and he will now play no part in Somerset's fight for survival in Division One of the County Championship.

More news regarding the identity of the new signing is expected at the start of next week.