Azhar Ali returns to Somerset for his third stint

The Somerset County Cricket Club has announced the return of former Pakistan skipper Azhar Ali with them. The Pakistan cricketer will be marking his third stint with the club when he would return to the Cooper Associates County Ground after getting his required Visa and No Objection Certificate. The right-handed batsman turned up first for Somerset in 2018 and played a crucial role in the club’s Royal London Cup success.

During his tenure with Somerset, Ali not only proved his merit on the field but also became an integral member of the club’s culture that took place off the field. He mustered over 800 runs with 125 being his highest score while playing 17 First-Class matches for the club.

It has to be noted that Marcus Trescothick presented him with the County Cap in 2019. He would now be available for Somerset’s remaining matches to take place in County Championship and would also play Bob Willis Trophy final at the Lord’s depending upon the qualification. Ahead of his joining, Ali added that he is extremely happy upon his return to the Somerset Club which has become a second home for him. He added that he will look forward to adding more success to the club in the coming days of his stint.

Azhar Ali is a class act, both on and off the field: Somerset Director

“I am very excited to be returning to Somerset. It has become like a second home for me. It is a special Club and I hope that I can contribute to more success because the Members, staff and supporters deserve it. I have been made to feel so welcome in my previous times with the Club and I look forward to representing the County again this year,” said Ali as quoted by somersetcountycc.co.uk.

“Azhar Ali is a class act, both on and off the field. His performances speak for themselves, but what people don’t see is the amount of time he is happy to devote to working with the younger players throughout the squad. He embodies everything that you want an overseas player to be,” added the Somerset Director Andy Hurry upon Ali’s return.