Zaheer replaces Nathan Bracken in Worcestershire

London, Mar 27 (UNI) Out of favour Zaheer Khan will replace Australian left-arm pacer Nathan Bracken as Worcestershire's overseas player this year.

The county, in its website, said with a very successful domestic season and regular selection for Australia over the last six months, Bracken had indicated he may not be available to play for most of the English season.

''The Club has agreed to release him from his contract and is delighted to announce the signing of fellow left armer, Zaheer Khan from India, as his replacement,'' it said.

Zaheer, on the other hand, is finding it difficult to claim his berth in Team India with Irfan Pathan, RP Singh, S Sreesanth and Munaf Patel -- all looking impressive and the Baroda pacer is expected to be available for the entire season.

The club website quotes Zaheer as saying that he was looking forward to playing for the County.

''To have the opportunity to play for Worcestershire is a privilege. I very much look forward to the season ahead and to re-establishing myself on the international scene while helping the County to win as many matches as possible,'' he said.

Club's Director of Cricket, Steve Rhodes, believes Zaheer is the right replacement and said, ''Zaheer has had an outstanding domestic season in India and is exactly the type of player we feel will bring variation to our bowling attack.'' The Indian is expected to arrive here in mid-April for the start of the season, subject to clearance from the BCCI.

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