KENT'S former South African all-rounder Andrew Hall has joined Northamptonshire on a three-year contract as a Kolpak player after deciding to retire from international cricket.

Director of Cricket Graham Johnson confirmed they held contract talks with 32-year-old Hall, but added: "Given the other considerations that we have in place with regard to the playing staff for 2008 and beyond, we concluded that we were not in a position to offer Andrew a suitable opportunity.

"He has been a hugely popular figure both in the dressing room and with Kent supporters, and we would like to place on record our thanks to him for all that he has done for the club during his time with us and wish him well for the future."