Mohammed Akram has signed for Surrey after leaving Sussex last week.

The former Pakistani fast bowler was released halfway through his two-year contract at Hove because he wanted to be based nearer his London home. He has agreed a three-year deal at the Oval.

The 30-year-old took 43 wickets at 34 in this year's Championship campaign and was also coveted by Gloucestershire for whom he played second team cricket at the start of his career.

He said: "In my opinion Surrey is the biggest team in England and importantly it is near my house. Sussex were a great bunch of guys, it is a fantastic club and I respect Peter Moores as a coach.

"Unfortunately it didn't really work for me as a family man, going up and down the motorway."

Sussex may look overseas to strengthen their fast bowling resources. A vacancy for a second overseas player has arisen because Murray Goodwin will be returning to Hove as a Kolpak registration.