Ryan McLaren has flown home knowing he has to earn the chance to play international cricket for South Africa.

The 26-year-old all rounder has relinquished his Kolpak status in favour of committing himself to playing in his homeland but won’t rule the prospect of coming back to Kent as an overseas player.

McLaren, who returned against Leicestershire last week after six weeks out with a side injury, said: "It’s every cricketer’s goal to play for their country but I have to go home and perform and not going with any expectations.

"I am contracted to play for the Eagles whose season has already started due to their involvement in the Champions League in India next month, so there will be plenty of cricket to be played."

McLaren, hat-trick hero in Kent’s Twenty20 final win over Gloucestershire at Edgbaston in 2007, added: "I have had a great time, learning so much and being part of a one-day team who have performed well and I’m happy to see the guys are back in Division 1.

"It’s well deserved considering we have had three or four seam bowlers injured throughout the season. Everyone has had to contribute but the batsmen have been consistent throughout.

"I leave here as a much more experienced player than when I arrived. All I have learnt will stand me in good stead for the future."