Surrey sign Kumble

Anil Kumble will be spinning a web for Surrey in 2006 © Getty Images

Surrey have signed Anil Kumble as one of their overseas players for a key period of next summer. Kumble will arrive following India's tour of West Indies, and will be available for eight Championship matches from July 14.

He has previously had county stints with Northamptonshire and Leicestershire and continues Surrey's tradition of signing high class spinner bowlers. Saqlain Mushtaq and Harbhajan Singh both played for the club last season.

The Surrey coach, Alan Butcher, said: "Anil is recognised as one of the best bowlers in world cricket. In addition, his character and professionalism are also hugely admired. Any coach would welcome these qualities in his dressing room. His presence will be a huge mid-season boost to us next year as we attempt to gain promotion to division one."

Kumble added: "It's great to have this opportunity to play for Surrey and it is something I am looking forward to immensely. This is a new chapter in Surrey's history and I want to help them get back on track to being a Championship winning side."