Somerset sign Murali Vijay for final stretch of County Championship title bid

He replaces Pakistan’s Azhar Ali, who was recalled by his national governing body earlier in August

Somerset have signed Indian opening batsman Murali Vijay on a deal until the end of the County Championship season.

The 35-year-old will be available for the final three games of the county’s title bid.

He replaces Pakistan’s Azhar Ali, who was recalled by his national governing body earlier in August.

Vijay, who has played 61 Tests for India, has experience of English red-ball cricket, having played for Essex last year. During that three-match stint, he averaged 64.60.

Somerset director of cricket, Andy Hurry said: “We are delighted to have been able to secure the services of such a high-quality player for the remainder of the County Championship.

"To have signed a player of his class and ability at this stage of the season is a real coup.

“He has experience of English conditions, having played in the Championship for Essex last year, and that was extremely important to us when it came to selecting a replacement for Azhar.”

Vijay added: “I am excited about the challenge of trying to help Somerset push for the County Championship. Somerset have an excellent reputation and I am looking forward to being a part of what they are trying to achieve.”

As fate would have it, Vijay’s final game will come against Essex, with title glory likely to be on the line.

The two teams meet at Taunton in the final round of County Championship matches; Essex currently hold a two-point lead over Somerset with three games to go.

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