Razzaq roped in by Middlesex

By P. Subramanyam

LONDON, JULY 12. Middlesex County Cricket Club has pulled off a startling coup by signing Pakistan's all-rounder Abdur Razzaq as its overseas player for the next two seasons.

The 21-year-old can bat anywhere in the top six of the batting order but opened the batting for the first time in Pakistan's victory over England at Old Trafford earlier this summer. In fact, he arrived on the Pakistan scene in 1999, as a wicket- taking seam bowler. He took a hat-trick last year and opened for his country in 2001 season.

``We were primarily looking for a strike bowler and Razzaq fits the bill well. He is a magnificent addition to our squad and the club is very excited at obtaining his services for the next two years,'' said Middlesex's coach and the former England off- spinner, John Emburey.

Razzaq has so far scored 479 runs with a best of 100 not out against England at Faisalabad last winter and has taken 26 wickets in 14 Test appearances.

He has been a regular member in Pakistan's One-day side since his debut in 1996, with 1,419 runs and 116 wickets in 84 matches, and has also played in the 1999 World Cup final at Lord's.

Koenig to join too

South African left-handed batsman, Sven Koenig will join Abdur Razzaq at Lord's next season after Middlesex made a double signing. Koenig has agreed to a three- year contract with the county.

The Durban-born player was the leading batsman in South African domestic cricket during the 2000-01 season with an average of 63.09 in first-class cricket.

The 27-year-old also bowls occasional right-arm off- breaks and has previously played for the South African `A' team.

Send this article to Friends by E-Mail

Section  : Sport
Previous : Atherton agrees to lead England
Next     : Hero Honda to sponsor Indian Tour