Shakib signs for Worcestershire

Shakib Al Hasan, world's number one all-rounder in ODIs, has just had another feather added to his already glittering career by becoming the first Bangladeshi cricketer to sign for an English county side.
Worcestershire, the county side that have had greats such as Ian Botham, Imran Khan, Kapil Dev in their ranks over the years, have captured the signature of Bangladesh's stand-in skipper as their overseas player for 2010.
However the 22-year-old left-hander will not be available until mid-July for the county because of his commitment with the Bangladesh team.
"I have been following his progress for some time. It is clear he is a very good player," told Worcestershire coach Steve Rhodes to BBC Sport.
"His current ICC rankings prove this and I know he is hungry for success.
"His all-round skills will be a great boost to our young team for the business end of the season," added the county's director of cricket.
Shakib was also excited with the opportunity to participate in county cricket.
"I am delighted to be joining Worcestershire in 2010," he said. "I followed county cricket as a young player growing up and the opportunity to fulfil one of my ambitions by playing as an overseas player in England is one that excites me greatly.
"I consider it a huge honour to be the first Bangladeshi overseas player in county cricket and can't wait to give my all for the club on the field."
Making his one-day international debut for his country in August 2006 at the age of 19, Shakib has played 75 games, making 2047 runs at 35.91, while taking 83 wickets.
He has also played 14 Tests, making 715 runs and taking 48 wickets.