Wasim Akram signs one year contract for Hampshire

Wasim Akram

Hampshire announced this morning the signing of Pakistani all-rounder Wasim Akram as their second overseas player. Wasim made a flying visit to England and was met by Hampshire Cricket Officials in a hotel in London in the early hours of Wednesday morning after his flight was delayed, signing a one-year contract.

After a few hours sleep Hampshire's latest signing flew off again, this time to St.Lucia in the West Indies to play in a double wicket tournament.

Wasim will join the Hampshire squad next Tuesday 9th April.

Bowling profile

Wasim Akram brings with him a wealth of experience, with 104 Test Matches and a stunning 356 One-Day Internationals, the left handed batsman and bowler, becoming the first player to reach 500 wickets in ODIs during the recent ICC World Cup. He has taken to date 1,022 First-class and 871 list 'A' limited overs wickets.

Before jetting off, Wasim made the following statement.

"I was impressed by the enthusiasm and ideas shown by Hampshire and am delighted to join such a progressive county. For me it is a fresh challenge and a new chapter in my career. The aim is for Hampshire to gain promotion in both competitions this year, and I hope to be able to play a part in that ambition".

Hampshire will make a statement later this week on the appointment of a captain, with Wasim coming into the frame alongside Will Kendall, Shaun Udal and John Crawley.

More comment from Hampshire will appear here later today.