Alleynes first capture signs up (From Gazette Series)

Alleynes first capture signs up

GLOUCESTERSHIRE CCC have completed the signing of Pakistan spin star Shoaib Malik, who will fill the first of their two free overseas spots for next season.

The capture represents a huge step forward for new coach Mark Alleyne, and is a positive end to the club's attempts to bring the all-rounder back to the County Ground after his successful three week stint as cover for Ian Harvey in the summer.

The deal was concluded last week, and it is hoped that the off-spinner will be available for nearly all of the season because of a lack of international commitments.

This will all be great news for Gloucestershire fans, who were left heartbroken after the double departure of last season's overseas duo Jonty Rhodes and Ian Harvey in the wake of the club's C&G Trophy success in August. But now Alleyne, the inspirational captain unveiled as the new head coach last week, has captured another international all-rounder to fill the void and thus begin the rebuilding job that lies ahead of him.

Malik, 21, has played in 43 one day internationals for Pakistan, taking 35 wickets and scoring two centuries, and has also played in two test matches. Last season, he featured in two Championship matches in his short spell at Gloucestershire, as well as three National League games and the C&G Trophy semi-final against Derbyshire, where he won the man-of-the-match award. His signing is likely to represent the first phase of Alleyne's attempt to introduce a new-look Gloucestershire next season.

The new coach said: "Shoaib did very well for us last year in the short time he was with us and fitted in very well. He is a gifted all-rounder who is worthy of a place in either discipline and as a 21-year-old he can only get better.

"He is an exciting, quality player who has much to offer the team and I am really pleased at having him in my squad."

Malik, on his return to the County Ground, commented: "I am really excited to have the opportunity to return and play for Gloucestershire again as everybody was very welcoming and professional. I look forward to helping Gloucestershire win things and being part of the new set-up and thank them for giving me this chance."

Speculation continues over who the second overseas player for next season will be, although the possibility of a seamer joining the club's frontline attack of Mike Smith and Jon Lewis looks likely.