Warwickshire have Pakistani fast bowler Mir Hamza on a short-team contract for the ongoing County Championship. The speedster has replaced compatriot Hasan Ali and will play in Warwickshire's home games against Lancashire and Middlesex.

Warwickshire County Cricket Club have signed Pakistani fast bowler Mir Hamza for the next two county championship games.

Hamza, a 30-year-old with an impressive record of 379 first-class wickets, will replace compatriot Hasan Ali in the squad. The left bowler will play Lancashire from Wednesday and Middlesex on July 25.

A veteran player at 30, Hamza has made 95 first-class appearances, including three Tests, taking 379 wickets with a 22.40 average. The Karachi native will be making his second appearance in county cricket after playing for Sussex in 2019, where he recorded 24 wickets in seven games.

"I'm happy to get this opportunity," said Hamza. "I've already played in the county championship before I know what to expect and I'm ready to go as the team is in good shape. I saw the impact Hassan left within the group and coming here I want to make a mark on these games with the ball. I know how important these games are, especially at Edgbaston, so I'll do my best."

Hamza arrived in the country on Friday and has already met his teammates for training this afternoon.

"Hamza will add a new dimension to our bowling unit as a left-hander," said Robinson. “We're a bit overworked at the moment and while Craig Miles and Liam Norwell are on the comeback path, we'll be cautious in the seam department if anything happens to our currently fit bowlers. Having played Test cricket, Hamza will bring plenty of experience to the group and make a crucial difference that we miss with Hassan's departure. He played alongside Burgy and Briggsy at Sussex who, along with Hassan, have all spoken of him as a very skilled bowler.”

Despite visa delays, the club look forward to Hamza's contributions, particularly following their recent win against Kent. The Bears have nevertheless won in three days and lie third in the Division One table, 23 points behind leaders Surrey.