Northants sign spinner Con de Lange

Northants have signed South African-born left-arm spinner Con de Lange for the 2012 season.

The 31-year-old has played all his first-class cricket in South Africa, taking 175 wickets in spells with Boland, Cape Cobras and Eagles, but is now a UK resident.

"I want to be part of a successful squad and help the club gain promotion to Division One," he said.

"I'm a fighter and I'm determined to always give my best for the team."

Northants narrowly missed out on a return to the top flight of the Championship last summer, having led Division Two for much of the season.

Although they beat Gloucestershire by nine wickets in their final game, they were pipped to second place by Surrey by a single point, with Middlesex taking top spot.

Head coach David Capel added: "We have considered many candidates throughout the past 12 months and I am pleased that we have signed a player of Con's quality, who will further strengthen the spin bowling department."