Surrey have signed South Africa’s Imran Tahir for this year’s T20 Blast.

Tahir, who is in the Proteas’ squad for the upcoming ICC Men’s Cricket World Cup, will be available for the entire Blast campaign.

The 40-year-old played a key role in Chennai Super Kings’ run to this year’s IPL final, taking 26 wickets to finish as the tournament’s leading wicket-taker. 

Tahir, who will retire from ODI cricket after the World Cup, is Surrey’s second overseas signing for the competition after Aaron Finch. He is set to join Surrey’s squad ahead of their opening match against Essex on July 19.

On signing for the club, Tahir said: “I’m always looking for new and exciting opportunities. That’s how I see the chance to play with one of the most talented playing groups in county cricket.

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“When I heard Alec Stewart had asked after me, it was an easy decision. Surrey are a massive club and it will be great if I can contribute to helping them win another trophy this summer at the Kia Oval.”