Arafat stays with Sussex

Yasir Arafat, one of the key figures in Sussex's one-day success this year, is poised for a third season at Hove

Buy this photo

Sussex have confirmed that Yasir Arafat will return as their overseas player next season.

The Pakistani seam-bowling all-rounder has committed to a third summer at Hove, following successful stints in 2006 and this year.

Though the 27-year-old made little impact in the LV= County Championship this season - his 12 wickets cost 51.75 apiece could not stave off relegation - he played a key role in Sussex’s one-day success.

He took 15 wickets at an average of 14 to help them win the Twenty20 Cup, and 12 wickets at 24.25 en route to NatWest Pro40 glory.

“I’m delighted to be coming back to Sussex for the 2010 season,” said Arafat, who was a member of the side knocked out of the Champions League Twenty20 in India last week.

“When I played my first year at the club in 2006, I was determined to return in the future. I did that last season and enjoyed every minute of it.

“Although we did not do so well in the championship, our one-day form was tremendous and it was a joy to be part of that.

“I look forward to 2010 and returning to a great bunch of players, coaching staff and supporters with a view to improving on 2009.”

Sussex captain Michael Yardy added: “Yasir played an integral part in our successes and it is great for us to secure him for 2010. He is a huge team man who has a great influence in the dressing room.”

Arafat, who has played three Tests and 11 one-day internationals for Pakistan, spent two seasons at Kent in between his spells with Sussex.

The news came on the day that India leg-spinner Piyush Chawla, who provided overseas cover for Arafat in two stints this summer, signed for Surrey for 2010.