Sussex are closing in on a limited-overs replacement for injured Vernon Philander.

But the county today revealed the South African international is on course to play in their next Championship fixture.

Philander is back in South Africa after suffering a groin injury in his debut against Kent and has been ruled out of the Royal London One-Day Cup.

He is due to rejoin Sussex for their four-dayer against Durham, starting on Sunday, May 21.

The county today said they are in the “latter stages of negotiations” to bring in a stand-in for the one-dayers.

Director of cricket Keith Greenfield said: “We are pleased with the news that Vernon is on course to re-join us for the re-commencement of the Championship.

“Despite the disappointing start in the four-day campaign, we are actively working to bolster the ranks with a replacement for him in the Royal London One-Day Cup and we hope to be able to confirm shortly.”

Sussex open their 50-overs programme against Middlesex at Lord’s on Thursday.