Imam-ul-Haq, a Pakistani opener, was signed by Somerset County Cricket Club on Monday for the remaining four games of the current LV= Insurance County Championship season.
The Pakistani Test batter will replace Australia’s Matt Renshaw in the league as an overseas player, subject to receiving the required NOC (no objection certificate) and visa, according to a statement released by Somerset.
By the end of August, the Australian cricketer is expected to return home to start domestic pre-season practice with his Stateside Queensland team.
Imam, who is 26 years old, has played for Pakistan in 14 Test matches, with the best score of 157 against Australia earlier this year.
His track record in First-Class is equally impressive. The left-hander has played in 57 games and amassed over 3500 runs at an average of 41.69, with the highest total of 202 not out.
Andy Hurry, the director of cricket for Somerset, is thrilled to have signed a “talented” Pakistani player.
Imam-Ul-Haq is a superb batter who will bring excellence and a wealth of experience to our environment, according to Hurry.
Since international cricket is heavily played during this significant time, he claimed that the club’s ability to bring in a seasoned Test match player for the final LV= Insurance County Championship matches of the season is a coup for it.
“We have a working extended relationship with the PCB, and we appreciate them helping us sign a player of this calibre. On and off the field, we are incredibly excited about what he will bring to the Club, the official said.
Imam is eager to join the Club at a later date in the year.
“Babar Azam and Azhar Ali have told me a lot about Somerset’s quality. It is a reputable club that receives a lot of support. I’m excited to represent the county at the County Championship and help some deserving teams win “said the cricketer.
“English County Cricket will present me with a new challenge, but one that I am relishing, “Added he.
