Leg-spinner Tahir is playing against Notts at Trent Bridge

Pakistan A leg-spinner Imran Tahir has signed a new two-year contract as Hampshire's overseas player.

Tahir, who has taken 36 wickets in just six Championship matches this season, was a surprise inclusion in Hampshire's side against Nottinghamshire.

Hampshire chairman Rod Bransgrove said: "This is fantastic news for Hampshire Cricket and our members.

"Imran has made a massive contribution to Hampshire since his arrival in July and has become a real favourite."

He added: "I'm extremely pleased that he has chosen to commit to Hampshire for the next two seasons and I am sure he will continue to be one of the most successful spinners on the county circuit."

Tahir said: "I am very grateful to Hampshire for giving me the opportunity to continue to play for this amazing club.

"Everyone at Hampshire has made me feel so welcome and I will do everything in my power to help the team achieve the success I know we are capable of."

Tahir's inclusion in Hampshire's side for the crucial County Championship game at Trent Bridge was kept secret after it appeared he had gone back to South Africa to link up with Titans.

But BBC Radio Solent revealed that Titans manager Richard Prybus reached agreement with Hants' acting manager Giles White to allow Tahir to stay.

The 29-year-old is second in the first-class bowling averages this summer.

His initial expected exclusion from the Hampshire side may have influenced the way Notts prepared the Trent Bridge wicket for the vital clash in the belief that their spinners Graeme Swann and Samit Patel would have the advantage.