Nottinghamshire's search for a new overseas player intensified today after it was confirmed that Chris Cairns will be out of action for the next nine months.

The world-class all-rounder is to undergo an operation in New Zealand next week to repair the damaged patella tendon in his right knee.

He won't play again until Christmas but Notts fans won't miss out completely on the chance to see him in action because he is already contracted as the overseas player at Trent Bridge for 2003.

Mick Newell, Notts' Cricket Operations Manager, said: "We feared the worst when Chris batted with a runner in the First Test against England but even so, it's a massive disappointment.

"The signing had created a lot of interest around the county and I know that Chris was really looking forward to coming back to Trent Bridge.

"The only consolation is that we can look forward to him playing for us in 2003. The plan is that he will be fully recovered in time to take part in the World Cup - and then he will come to Nottingham.

"The doctor apparently told Chris he could rest up for about six weeks and then come to England and give it a try. But it was doubtful whether the knee would have stood up to regular cricket and that wouldn¹t have been a good situation for Chris or us."

Although South African star Lance Klusener is to start the season as Notts' overseas player, a replacement is now being sought for Cairns and it could be that Notts will use three overseas players during the course of the summer.

They are currently in talks with two players - a South African and an Australian - and Newell added: "We need to get things sorted out as a matter of some urgency and we are making progress.

"The South African is definitely interested in joining us. It's just a matter of agreeing terms although he is unlikely to complete the season with us because he will have international commitments.

"If that¹s the case, we will look to sign another overseas player to replace him. It¹s not an ideal situation but the rules allow for that to happen so we might as well take advantage of it."

© Nottinghamshire CCC