SALTIRES chiefs were dealt a major blow last night when Kiwi star George Worker told them he won’t be joining them this summer.

The former New Zealand U19 captain had signed a deal to spearhead the side’s CB40 campaign.

However, Worker, 22, has been drafted into the Black Caps squad for an Emerging Nations tournament.

The news is also a setback for Watsonians CC for whom the Canterbury all-rounder was due to play in the Eastern Premier Division.

Cricket Scotland chief executive Roddy Smith declared: “It’s very disappointing news because George Worker ticked all the boxes.

“He played a few games for us last season and fitted in really well with all the guys.

“It will be extremely difficult – if not impossible – to replace him like-for-like.”

Worker played three games – two of them victories - for the Saltires last season as a replacement for Luke Butterworth.

He had been earmarked for a key role as a top order batsman and spin bowler.

With many clubs cutting back on the expense of an overseas professional, bosses face a tough task to replace Worker.