Azhar Mahmood returning to Surrey in player-coach role
Wednesday 3 February 2016 12:35, UK
Azhar Mahmood is returning to Surrey in a player-coach role for this season's NatWest T20 Blast competition.
Mahmood will return to the county in the middle of May and be available for all of their T20 games as well as helping out Surrey's coaching staff.
The 40-year-old first turned out at the Kia Oval in 2002 and has returned on a number of occasions, as well as having a successful spell with Kent.
He produced one of the county's highlights last summer when he smashed a six off the final ball to see Surrey to a four-wicket win over Gloucestershire.
His addition to the squad gives Surrey yet another big name player to utilise during the T20 Blast, with Aaron Finch, Kumar Sangakkara and Dwayne Bravo all set to represent the county over the summer.
"It's great to be coming back to Surrey CCC again this summer," he said. "Having played all around the world, the atmosphere on a Friday night at the Kia Oval is something special and I can't wait to be back.
"To be given the opportunity to coach as well as play is something I'm very excited about."
Director of cricket Alec Stewart added: "We look forward to welcoming Azhar back this summer, both as a member of the playing squad and in his new part-time coaching role.
"Being able to tap into his wealth of cricket knowledge and experience will be a big asset for the club."
