Azharullah commits his future to Northants

Muhammad Azharullah has signed a two-year deal

The 29-year-old seamer, who arrived on a short-term deal after being scouted playing league cricket in Yorkshire, had attracted interest from other counties in the wake of a string of excellent performances.

But he has decided to stay put, much to the delight and relief of head coach David Ripley who said: “We made him a good offer which we think he reflected what he’s done at the club.

“We were a little concerned because there are clubs out there with bigger budgets than we’ve got but Azhar intimated that it wouldn’t be just about the money and that he would be keen to stay even if he was offered a bit more elsewhere.”

It has been in limited overs cricket, and especially in the 20-over format, where Azharullah has stood out and Ripley admitted to being pleasantly surprised at how well he has done.

He added: “I knew we’d get what we’ve got in the red ball cricket but it’s surprised me how well he’s done with the white ball.

“He’s been a revelation in that area and shown just how attacking and skilful he is.”