VERNON Philander got his Somerset career off to a flying start with a three-wicket haul on the opening day of the LV County Championship season against Middlesex.

Play was delayed until 2.45pm at a damp Taunton, with the hosts electing to bowl first when the covers finally came off.

And it proved to be a good decision, with South African debutant Philander ending the day with figures of 3-21 from 12 overs, leaving the visitors on 118-4.

It only took the fast bowler three balls to get his man, when Sam Robson edged through to England international Craig Kieswetter.

Dawid Malan and Middlesex captain Neil Dexter became Philander's next victims, with the former trapped lbw.

Play will resume at Taunton tomorrow (April 6).