Worcestershire has hired Pakistan batsman Azhar Ali to fill in for the inactive Matthew Wade for the 2022 County Championship season.
Former Somerset right-handed player Azhar, 36, has scored an average of 18 century in the 91 matches of Test cricket played for his country, with an average of 42.53.
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He will take over Australia batter Wade, who was accepted for the Pears but has been subsequently selected to join Indian Premier League side Gujarat Titans.
Azhar is expected to be accessible for all 14 Pears Division Two games in 2022.
“It is a fantastic signing and [head coach] Alex Gidman is delighted,” said Worcestershire, the cricket steering group Paul Pridgeon chairman.
“His record for Test cricket is exceptional, and he provides a great experience and is of excellent quality. “
Former Pakistan captain Azhar has played in 19 County Championship games over three years for Somerset and scored a century on his debut in a match against Worcestershire at Taunton in 2018.
He could debut during the Pears opener against Leicestershire in Leicestershire’s Uptonsteel County Ground on 7 April.
“It is great that we have someone willing to participate in County Championship cricket all summer. This gives us security,” said Pridgeon.
“The reality that Azhar has played county cricket and is aware of English conditions is another factor. “
