Jackson Bird ruled out of Lancashire spell with neck injury

The Australia seamer was due to arrive later this month for six County Championship matches but has been advised to rest for four weeks

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Lancashire have been dealt an injury blow with the news Australia seamer Jackson Bird will not be fulfilling his spell at Emirates Old Trafford.

The 34-year-old, who has 414 first-class wickets in 99 matches, was due to arrive later this month to play six County Championship matches starting against Kent on April 22 at Canterbury.

However, the Tasmania quick is suffering from a bulging disk in his neck and after a scan has been advised to rest for four weeks.

It leaves the club "considering its options" regarding a second overseas player for the red-ball competition, with Dane Vilas already in place.

Shreyas Iyer has been signed up for the One-Day Cup, with Finn Allen due to arrive for the T20 Blast starting in June.

Director of cricket Paul Allott said: "We are disappointed to lose Jackson as he would have been a great addition to our side for six LV= County Championship matches this summer.

"But of course, we understand that his long-term health and fitness must come first, and we all hope to see him back out on a cricket field soon."

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