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Kent all-rounder Ryan McLaren has been released from his contract a year early so he can return to international cricket with South Africa.
The 26-year-old has a further year to run on his Kent contract after penning a three-year deal in 2007 as a Kolpak player.
However, McLaren (pictured) has decided that he wants to return to the international arena with South Africa and he will be available for selection again from the end of October.
Kent have yet to announce the decision, which was revealed by Cricket South Africa chief executive Gerald Majola.
"It is good news indeed for South African cricket that all-rounder Ryan McLaren has decided to forfeit the final year of his contract with Kent and make himself available for selection for the Proteas," said Majola.
"Ryan has been rated as one of South Africa’s leading all-rounders over the past few years. His past performances made him a candidate for the Proteas’ squad and we have no doubt that he will be knocking on the door again."
McLaren was previously selected by South Africa for their one-day squad last season but had to withdraw as Kent refused to release him from his contract at that time.
He is also halfway through a two-year deal with Indian Premier League side Mumbai Indians.
McLaren could still play for Kent next summer but it would have to be as an overseas player.
He will play domestic cricket in South Africa for Diamond Eagles and is also in their squad for the Champions League tournament which takes place in India this October – Kent failed to qualify after their Twenty20 Cup semi-final defeat.
South Africa selector Mike Procter also welcomed McLaren’s return to the international fold.
"It’s good news," he said. "We now have a lot of options in our seam-bowling resources. There is going to be some healthy competition for places, not only in the national side but in the South Africa A team, which we want to make into a genuine second XI."