Stuurman had signed for the first block of County Championship games in April and May. However, after picking up what the club described as a “mild strain” in the opening round trip to Durham, scans have now ruled him out for up to six weeks.

It means that Stuurman, who claimed match figures of 5 for 107 in the draw at Chester-le-Street, will return home early. His compatriot Senuran Muthusamy is due to arrive for the start of the Blast in late May and will also play the rest of the Championship season.

“We’re disappointed that Glenton’s time has been cut short this season,” Kent’s Director of Cricket, Simon Cook, said. “He has been a good addition to the dressing room.

“With Matt Quinn very close to match fitness and Mikey Cohen fully available, we still have depth in our seam bowling attack for the near future. Grant Stewart will also be in contention to return next week.”

Kent currently sit second from bottom in Division Two after drawing both of their opening games – the latter, at home to Northants, with the aid of rain.