Saqlain signs for Sussex

Saqlain Mushtaq could play for England © Getty Images

Sussex have given Saqlain Mushtaq the chance to resurrect his career after signing the former Pakistan spinner on a two-year contract.

The 30-year-old, who has spent most of the last three years sidelined with knee problems, will initially provide cover for fellow slow bowler Mushtaq Ahmed who will coach Pakistan during the World Cup.

Saqlain is widely credited with inventing the deceptive delivery known as the ‘doosra’ and was the fastest player to reach the milestones of 100, 150, 200 and 250 one-day international wickets.

Sussex professional cricket manager Mark Robinson said: “The option of the two Mushtaqs bowling in tandem is a mouth-watering prospect.

“Saqlain is only 30 and we hope, with the right care and attention from our support staff, he will have a long and successful new chapter of his career.”

Saqlain added: “I am very much looking forward to at least the next two years with Sussex with great ambition and determination having spent the majority of the last three years out of the game.

“I am very grateful to Sussex and Mark Robinson for giving me this opportunity and look forward to repaying them on the field.”

Mushtaq Ahmed bowled Sussex to last season's County Championship title © Getty Images

In early April, Saqlain will be allowed to apply for his British passport and could therefore play for the county champions as an EU-qualified player.

Next season he would be able to represent England, should the opportunity arise.

Sussex captain Chris Adams said: “This is a very exciting signing indeed.

“The last time I felt this excited about bringing a player to the club is when we signed Mushtaq Ahmed.

“If Saqlain can emulate even half of what Mushtaq has achieved, then not only will we have allowed him to rediscover his form and presumably his happiness with his game and his cricket, but I am certain that if that’s the case the England selectors will be watching very closely.

“I would like to add that, whilst I am sure there is much hard work ahead for Saqlain, he will bring an enormous amount of experience to the squad and with young spinners like Ollie Rayner and Tom Smith that can only help them advance their own games and quest for first-class cricket, watching and learning alongside a true master.”

Saqlain is the only spinner to claim an ODI hat-trick and is one of only three bowlers to complete the feat on more than one occasion.