SALTIRES star Preston Mommsen last night moved closer to clinching a move south after making his County Championship debut for Leicestershire.

The Carlton all-rounder earned promotion after only two appearances for the county’s second string last week.

Mommsen made just nine runs as Leicestershire lost six wickets during the morning session against Kent at Canterbury.

However, he will have another chance to impress during the second innings before returning to Saltires colours for Sunday’s CB40 clash with Durham.

Coach Pete Steindl said: “An opening arose in the Leicester squad in the last couple of days and we agreed to loan Preston.

“It was all fairly hurried to get official ECB clearance on the eve of the game but we’re happy things have gone through.

“He is good enough and experienced enough to deal with things down there.

“Leicestershire are operating with a small squad and we have an arrangement where we can loan them players when required.

“It suits everyone.”

Meanwhile Greenock all-rounder Richie Berrington is back training with the Saltires after his short-term loan with the Grace Road county.