Somerset not in talks with Ricky Ponting

Somerset have claimed that they are not holding discussions with Ricky Ponting over a proposed move to the county club.

The former Australian captain has been linked with a move to the club in recent days but any deal seems to be far from being concluded.

A spokesperson said: "We are not in active discussions for that to happen at this point.

"It would be wrong to suggest that you would not want to wish to sign a player like Ricky Ponting but it is not a highway we are travelling down at the moment. We are keeping our options open at this point."

South African bowler Vernon Philander has already agreed a move to Somerset for the early stages of the county season.

Philander will be unavailable once England's series with South Africa begins.