Tahir commits to Hampshire

Pakistan-born leg-spinner Imran Tahir has signed a two-year contract with Hampshire as the club’s overseas player.

Tahir’s arrival at the Rose Bowl in July sparked a turnaround in the county’s fortunes as they surged up the LV County Championship table.

The 29-year-old, who previously had spells with Middlesex and Yorkshire, claimed 36 championship wickets at 17.25 in just six matches.

Imran Tahir will return to play for Hampshire next season

Hampshire thought Tahir had played his last game this season in their penultimate match against Surrey before he joined up with South African side Titans.

However, they negotiated his return for the title-decider against Nottinghamshire at Trent Bridge and subsequently announced he would return for the next two seasons.

Hampshire chairman Rod Bransgrove said: “This is fantastic news for Hampshire Cricket and all our members and supporters.

“Immy has made a massive contribution to Hampshire Cricket since his arrival in July and he has become a real favourite both in the dressing room and with our members and spectators.

“I am extremely pleased that he has chosen to commit himself to Hampshire for the next two seasons and I am sure that he will continue to be one of the most potent and successful spinners on the county circuit.’

Tahir, who has not been capped by Pakistan, added: “I am very grateful to Hampshire for giving me the opportunity to continue to play for this amazing club.

“Everyone at Hampshire has made me feel so welcome and I will do everything in my power to help the team achieve the success I know we are capable of.”