LONDON, Nov. 7: England’s Surrey County Cricket Club Thursday announced it has signed two of Pakistan’s leading players, Azhar Mahmood and Saqlain Mushtaq, both on two-year contracts.

All rounder Azhar was at the Oval at start of 2002 season and was top of Surrey bowling averages with 20 wickets at 17.25 as well as returning his Innings best bowling figures in first-class cricket of 8-61 against Lancashire.

In his 21 Test Matches for Pakistan he has scored 900 runs at average of 30 and taken 39 wickets. The 27 year old toured England with Pakistan in 2001.

Off-spinner Saqlain has been at Club since 1997 and helped Surrey win three Championships (1999, 2000 and 2002) and two Benson & Hedges Cups (1997 & 2001). Last season he took 53 wickets at 25.64 in 2002.

In his 43 Test matches for Pakistan he has taken 183 wickets and in 156 One Day International matches he has taken 271 wickets.

Keith Medlycott, Surrey cricket Manager stated: “Azhar made a big impression on the side during his short spell at the start of last season. He fitted straight into the team and I am extremely pleased that we have signed him on a two-year contract.

“Saqlain has been an Integral member of the team in the last five years and has been instrumental in our recent success.”—PPI