Essex secure deal for Pakistan bowler Mohammad Amir

Pakistan bowler Mohammad Amir will get a taste of county cricket after agreeing a deal to join Essex for the second half of the 2017 season.

Amir, 24, will link up with the county following the completion of the Champions Trophy and will be available from June 19 to compete in both the County Championship and T20 Blast.

He was part of the spot-fixing scandal that rocked the sport in 2010 but returned to compete in this summer’s series between England and Pakistan.

Amir, a left-arm seamer, said: “I am very excited about becoming part of the Essex family. Chris Silverwood and Ronnie Irani have both been very supportive over the summer. I’m hoping I can carry on Essex’s success this season and achieve more for the club in 2017.”

Amir has made 20 Test match appearances for Pakistan, claiming 69 wickets, as well as taking 37 scalps in 24 ODIs.

Essex head coach Chris Silverwood said: “We are thrilled that Mohammad has decided to join us for half of the 2017 campaign. He showed a real desire to be a part of the Club and the fact we have him for two competitions is a real bonus.

“He is still only young but has proved himself at International level already, so it is a real coup to get this signing completed.”