Pakistan all-rounder Shahid Afridi has signed to play for Hampshire as their second overseas player for the 2011 Friends Provident t20 competition.
He will join compatriot and fellow leg-spinner Imran Tahir in bolstering Hampshire's attack as they bid to retain their title which they won at The Rose Bowl last year.
Afridi is expected to arrive at the end of May and be available for the entirety of the competition. Afridi, who is currently captaining his country in the World Cup, was due to join Hampshire last year before he made a decision to return to Test cricket.
His subsequent retirement from Test cricket means he will be available for Hampshire once again and he is looking forward to joining up with the Royals.
"I was disappointed not to join Hampshire last season. It would have been fantastic to have been a part of the team that made history by winning the t20 trophy on home soil.
"Having played at The Rose Bowl for Pakistan last year I know that it is fast becoming one of the best places in the country to watch cricket of all levels. I hope very much to play a big part in the club’s success in 2011."
"Having played at The Rose Bowl for Pakistan last year I know that it is fast becoming one of the best places in the country to watch cricket of all levels. I hope very much to play a big part in the club’s success in 2011."
In signing Afridi, Hampshire have picked up a proven performer. He led by example as Pakistan won the 2009 ICC World Twenty20 with crucial innings in the semi-final against against South Africa and the final against Sri Lanka while he has also played more than 300 One-Day Internationals for his country and represented the Deccan Chargers in the Indian Premier League.
