Leicestershire sign Pakistan batsman Sharjeel Khan
Wednesday 7 September 2016 10:46, UK
Leicestershire have signed Pakistan international Sharjeel Khan.
Khan, an attacking opening batsman, joins as Leicestershire's second overseas player for NatWest T20 Blast in 2017.
The left-hander has scored 1,712 runs at an average of 27.17 during his T20 career and last month hit 152 from 86 balls in Pakistan's one-day international win over Ireland.
Leicestershire chief executive Wasim Khan revealed the club beat off interest to sign the 27-year-old.
"I am aware that there was keen interest from other counties, so I am delighted that we have managed to secure someone of Sharjeel's ability for the duration of the 2017 NatWest T20 Blast campaign," he said.
"He is a powerful hitter who will offer us another option as a T20 opener. We have been watching Sharjeel closely this summer, when he has caught the eye of many with his dynamic ball striking."
In signing for Leicestershire, Khan hopes to emulate the achievements of some notable compatriots.
"It has been an ambition of mine to play county cricket and I would like to thank Leicestershire for this great opportunity," he said.
"A number of fine Pakistan batsmen have played for Leicestershire over the years including Shahid Afridi, Abdul Razzaq and Umar Akmal, and I'm pleased to be following in their footsteps."
