Middlesex lead race for dropped Ntini

Udal confirmed Middlesex would be very interested in Ntini if the seamer accepts his South Africa career is over and makes himself available as a so-called Kolpak player, which would preclude him from making international appearances.

Udal said: "If a player of his quality becomes available, obviously we'd be very interested. The next call is down to him but, if he does decide to make himself available, everyone at Middlesex would love to have him.

"We were made aware through various sources that, if the series didn't go particularly well, he had expressed an interest in playing county cricket of some form and, if anything happens – and it's still a big if – he would like to play at Lord's.

"Makhaya has done well at Lord's, he's got three five-wicket hauls there and it's the home of cricket so who wouldn't want to play at the home of cricket if the opportunity arises? If he does decide to come, we'd be absolutely delighted."

Ntini, 32, was informed he would be dropped this week after poor performances in the first two Test matches. Many in South Africa believe it signalled an end to his remarkable international career.

Udal added: "We've spoken to two or three people about him and not heard one single word of anything but praise in terms of his attitude, his mentality and he was brilliant in the dressing room."