Rehman Set to Return to Somerset Next Season Author: Analyst Maaz; Views: 455; Date: 19-12-2012, 05:12;

Abdur Rehman will return for Somerset in 2013. Rehman currently is at the final stages of completing his ban for use of banned substances. The wily old fox therefore missed out on the Champions League, Presidents Trophy, Faysal Bank T20, selection for the India tour. Rehman claimed his best first class figures with Somerset in September and reminded many of Mushtaq Ahmed’s dominance with Sussex during 2003-2007 as he bamboozled batters and ran through sides single handily, game after game.

There was one such instance last season where Rehman turned out for the men in Taunton less than 15 hours after being involved in a one day international decider with his national side in Sharjah. The unerring accuracy and nagging perseverance are the hallmarks of his controlled and economical bowling shows. The Pakistani overseas international was initially called up to play for Somerset as cover for George Dockrell who was captaining Ireland at the under-19 World Cup in Queensland, Australia.

The silent assassin was the joint leading Pakistani spinner to reach the milestone of 50 test scalps. He is best remembered for taking 19 wickets in 3 tests at an average in the teens against England in the UAE as the number 1s capitulated to some of the best quality finger spin bowling you will see. The Somerset captain was viewing the series as a studio expert/pundit and must have had some influence behind the signing of the Pakistani bowling workhorse.

Rehman’s commitments could be restricted with the ICC Champions Trophy and tour of the West Indies.

We understand his availability will mainly be in the 2^nd half of a big summer for the English game.