Tahir signs new Hampshire contract

Pakistani leg-spinner Imran Tahir has signed a new contract with Hampshire which will keep him with the southern English county for another two years, it was announced Wednesday.

Tahir has had a dramatic effect on Hampshire's fortunes this season since making his club debut in July, helping transform the Rose Bowl-based side from seeming certainties for relegation to having an outside shot at becoming county champions for the first time in 35 years.

Before the final round of matches, which started on Wednesday, Tahir had taken 36 wickets in six Championship fixtures at a meagre average of just over 17 apiece. It looked as if he would miss the last match of the season, away to Nottinghamshire, the First Division leaders, when he was recalled for pre-season training by the Titans before the South African franchise relented and allowed him to play at Trent Bridge. "This is fantastic news for Hampshire cricket and all our members and supporters," Hampshire chairman Rod Bransgrove said.

'Immy' has made a massive contribution to Hampshire cricket since his arrival in July and he has become a real favourite both in the dressing room and with our members and spectators.

"I am extremely pleased that he has chosen to commit himself to Hampshire for the next two seasons - and I am sure that he will continue to be one of the most potent and successful spinners on the county circuit." Tahir, 29, added: "I am very grateful to Hampshire for giving me the opportunity to continue to play for this amazing club."

LONDON, Thursday (AFP)