DURHAM are set to sign one of the most exciting talents in world cricket after South African pace bowler Kagiso Rabada was lined up for the first six weeks of the domestic season.

Rabada, who took 13 wickets as South Africa demolished England in the final Test of the recent series, is expected to sign a short-term deal at Durham Emirates ICG.

He will replace Australian John Hastings, who has been ruled out of the start of the county season and may even miss the whole of Durham’s 2016 campaign.

Hastings requires shoulder surgery at some stage this summer, but is also hoping to compete in the World Twenty20 and Indian Premier League.

Rabada burst to prominence during the recent Test series with England, with his performances leading him to suggest a spell in English county cricket could help further his development.

The 20-year-old has also spoken to Kent and Gloucestershire, but Durham are understood to have won the battle for his signature.

He has been lined up to play in Durham’s opening five County Championship matches as he attempts to gain some knowledge of English conditions ahead of South Africa’s tour next year.

Rabada’s decision to play in England has been supported by senior figures within South African cricket, who have been playing a major role in his development.

“It (playing in England) will benefit him massively,” said South Africa coach Russell Domingo. “He is still a young boy. He hasn’t played a lot of four-day cricket and South Africa tour England in 2017.

“There is a big series there with Tests and a Champions Trophy, so whatever experience he can get beforehand will be beneficial for him and the team.”

Hastings’ anticipated absence is a major blow to Durham, with the Australian all-rounder having been a key figure throughout the whole of last season.

“John is in some discomfort at the minute,” said Durham coach Jon Lewis. “I don’t know how much Sheffield Shield cricket he’s looking to play in the rest of the Australian season, but it’s probably not a great deal.

“He’s hoping to play at the World T20, but he’s going to require some surgery on the shoulder at some stage.

“It’s his left shoulder, not his dominant shoulder, so it could have been worse, but we’re planning to be without John for the start of the season and we need to be ready in case he’s not able to play at all this summer. It’s a distinct possibility.”