Middlesex have pulled off a coup by signing Pakistan all-rounder Abdur Razzaq as their overseas player for the next two seasons.

The 21-year-old can bat anywhere in the top six, but opened the batting for the first time in Pakistan's victory over England at Old Trafford earlier this summer.

He is also a wicket-taking seam bowler, who took a hat-trick in a Test against Sri Lanka at Galle last year.

"He is a magnificent addition to our squad and the club are very excited at obtaining his services for the next two years," said coach John Emburey.

Razzaq has so far scored 479 runs, with a best of 100 not out against England at Faisalabad last winter, and taken 26 wickets in 14 Test appearances.

He has been a regular in Pakistan's one-day side since his debut in 1996, with 1,419 runs and 116 wickets in 84 matches, and played in the 1999 World Cup final at Lord's.

Double signing

"Once I knew of their interest, Middlesex was the only place I wanted to go," Razzaq commented.

"The prospect of playing at Lord's for such a county as Middlesex is a dream come true."

He will be joined by left-hand batsman Sven Koenig, who has agreed a three-year contract with the county.

He was the leading batsman in South African domestic cricket during their 2000-01 season, with an average of over 63.

The Durban-born left-hander is eligible under European Union regulations because he has an Italian passport.