Azhar, who has recently retired from international white-ball cricket, will be available for the County Championship and the Royal London One-Day Cup for the whole season.

Since his previous stint at Somerset, Azhar has appeared in three Tests for Pakistan – twice against Australia and once against New Zealand – scoring 188 at an average of 31.33 in his six innings, with a top score of 65.

“Azhar fitted in seamlessly during his time with us towards the back end of the 2018 season. Knowing the positive impact that he will have both on and off the field, alongside his availability all summer, were key factors in wanting to secure him.

Whilst he was here, he spent a lot of time working alongside the Second XI players and giving them the benefit of his experience. That is exactly the sort of support you want from your overseas signing and I can’t speak highly enough of him as a person.”