Mushtaq awarded testimonial by Sussex

Former Pakistan legspinner Mushtaq Ahmed has been awarded a testimonial for the next season by Sussex for his "exceptional service" to the team for the last six years.

Mushtaq, who is part of England's coaching set-up, will continue his part-time coaching duties with Sussex in 2010. "It has been a pleasure representing Sussex since 2003 and I now look at Hove as a home away from home," Mushtaq said. "I enjoyed every single moment with this remarkable county and it makes me happy to see them winning more trophies this year. I thank everyone involved in making 2010 my testimonial year."

In 2003 Mushtaq became the first bowler in five years to take 100 wickets in the English season, a return that was instrumental in guiding Sussex to the first Championship title in their history, a feat he and they repeated in 2006 and 2007. He has taken 478 wickets at 25.34 for Sussex over six seasons, with 40 five-fors and 15 ten-wicket hauls.

Jim May, the Sussex chairman, said Mushtaq was arguably Sussex's best-ever signing. "His leg spin bowling was the X-factor in winning our first ever County Championship in 2003, a feat repeated in 2006 and 2007. Aside from his cricket, Mushy is also one of the most popular figures in the Sussex cricket family. His friendly, supportive and inspirational manner means he will always be welcome at Sussex."