LONDON, July 12: English cricket county Nottinghamshire have completed the signing of Pakistan batsman Younis Khan. The 27-year-old will deputise for skipper Stephen Fleming, who is leading New Zealand on their tour of Zimbabwe at the end of this month.

Younis, the current Pakistan vice-captain, will play five Championship matches for Notts, who currently lead Division One, and will also appear in three National League fixtures.

“I think Younis will prove to be an excellent replacement for Stephen,” said director of cricket Mick Newell.

“His Test record in the past 12 months has been terrific and Chris Cairns recommended him to me when it became clear Stephen was going to be away.

“He is also got the right kind of character to fit in with the dressing room atmosphere, which was also important.”

Jason Gallian is set to take over the captaincy from Fleming.

Younis is first Pakistan batsman to sign for an English county since Salim Malik joined Essex in 1991.

He has hit nine Test centuries from 37 Test appearances and holds a healthy average of 44.59.—Agencies