SPIN wizard Saeed Ajmal has vowed to repay the faith shown in him by Worcestershire after signing for a third spell with the county for the 2015 campaign.
Ajmal, who spent the winter remodelling his action, will definitely be available for the second half of the season from early July and potentially for a sizeable chunk of the first half depending on whether or not Pakistan’s tour of Bangladesh goes ahead.
The 37-year-old played a major part in the Pears gaining promotion last summer with 63 wickets in nine matches.
However, he was forced to remodel his action after being banned from international cricket in September, but has now been given the green light to resume bowling after passing an ICC biomechanics test in Chennai last month.
Ajmal said he was determined to help Worcestershire “achieve their high goals” and help establish them in Division One of the LV= County Championship.
“I am proud to be part of Worcestershire County Cricket Club and delighted to be coming back for a third spell,” he said.
“I’ve had this difficult spell of my career with my action but I knew I would come through it and have had the support not only of Pakistan but also Worcestershire throughout.
“Worcestershire have all the time stood by me and I can assure them I will repay the faith they have shown in me this season.
“I would love to be with Worcestershire as long as possible so I can help the club achieve their high goals and also help establish them in Division One.”
Worcestershire Director of Cricket Steve Rhodes has constantly shown his support for Ajmal during the past six months while he has remodelled his action.
He said: “I’m delighted Saeed is coming back. He’s very important in what is hopefully going to be a successful season for us and is an important member of the dressing room.
“He brings a lot of confidence to the team as well which is really important for this young group of players.
“He has made a tremendous impact. He is a real quality performer as all our members and supporters know.”