Kent's Ryan McLaren will honour his contract with the club and will be returning next season.

The Kolpak all-rounder's future at the St Lawrence was thrown into doubt earlier this week after South African cricket officials confirmed the 25-year old's inclusion in the squad for their upcoming one-day international series with Kenya and Bangladesh.

Had McLaren joined up for a training camp on October 27, Kent would've had to re-sign him as an overseas player for 2009.

Commenting on the club's website, Chief Executive Paul Millman said:

“We have been in regular discussions with Ryan and his agent, Arthur Turner, over the last few days following Cricket South Africa’s approach.

"Ryan has always recognised the commitment he has made to Kent cricket and whilst we know that he is flattered by the approach from Cricket South Africa we are, of course, delighted that he has acknowledged that his contractual commitments to the club must stand.”

McLaren expressed a desire to qualify to play for England earlier this year, and has two years left on his present deal at Canterbury. He attracted the attention of coach Mickey Arthur when South Africa toured England this summer.

South Africa play two one-day internationals against Kenya in Bloemfontein and two against Bangladesh in McLaren's home town of Kimberley.