Lancashire have lost their appeal to keep South African batsman Francois du Plessis for the 2010 county season and beyond.

The 25-year-old Nashua Titans player was due to commence his third season at Old Trafford under the Kolpak ruling.

But changes in regulations mean that he will be unable to fulfil his existing three-year deal with the Red Rose county, despite months of lobbying the authorities by cricket director Mike Watkinson.

The England and Wales Cricket Board are determined to reduce the number of overseas players who qualify to play as locals in our domestic game, and du Plessis is just one of a number who have lost their appeals.

Watkinson said: “This is a very disappointing outcome. Faf has been an important part of our professional squad since his arrival, and was part of our plans going forward.

“We accept the change in the immigration criteria, and support the long term objectives associated with this decision.

“However, it’s a shame that certain players of quality who have demonstrated genuine commitment to English cricket, and add something to our game, will be lost to county cricket.”