DEVON have  been forced to abandon plans to bring in former Somerset fast bowler Alfonso Thomas as player-coach.

Thomas, who left Somerset at the end of the 2015 season, was lined-up as Devon’s player-coach last season before Minor Counties Cricket Association regulations got in the way.

Although Thomas lives in the United Kingdom, he was born in South Africa and not qualified to play for England.

MCCA registration qualifications framed more than 30 years ago to prevent counties bringing in star players from overseas are largely still in place.

Thomas was qualified to play First Class cricket in this country, but not recreational cricket in Minor Counties competitions.

A further complication for Thomas and Devon was a change in ECB policy regarding the length of time a cricketer has to spend in the country to be categorized as a resident.

The qualification had been 210 days a year for four years. ECB hiked it to 210 for seven years and Thomas fell foul of the change.

As a professional cricketer playing 12 months of the year, Thomas had taken contracts overseas during the English winter.

The MCCA has a discretionary power to exempt players from the regulations – and Devon appealed to them to use it.

Following a hearing in Birmingham, the answer was a resounding ‘no’.

Neil Gamble, who attended the hearing, said it was ironic Thomas could play in the Devon Premier Division for Exeter or for a First Class county, but not in Minor Counties games.

Gamble said although Devon and Thomas did everything they could to overcome the nationality issues, the MCCA stuck rigidly to the rules.

“There was a strong reluctance by MCCA to act discretionarily which they can do,” said Gamble.

“After much effort and legal cost, Alfie was granted citizenship in July 2016.

“Further problems then arose over the amount of time Alfie was required to remain in the country when ECB increased the time limit to seven years.

“Alfie’s position was made impossible.”

Gamble said because of the MCCA’s unwillingness to compromise, Devon had been denied the services of a good bowler and experienced coach.

“It is deeply disappointing for Devon that the MCCA wouldn’t use its discretion and be flexible over a middle-significance referral issue,” said Gamble.

“Devon with Alfie’s bowling and cricketing nous, could have done particularly well.

“He would have helped our good, young players to develop into a fine team.”