PAKISTAN international bowler Usama Mir will remain with the Worcestershire Rapids for the rest of the T20 Vitality Blast campaign after extending his spell with the county. 

Having initially signed a three-match deal with the Rapids, Mir will now fill the vacant overseas signing spot following the injury to Michael Bracewell.

The New Zealander has ruptured his Achilles and will be out for up to eight months, it was confirmed on Wednesday evening.

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Mir also played red-ball cricket for Worcestershire in the recent draw with Sussex on a one-match deal having impressed in a Rapids shirt.

The 25-year-old leg-spinner played an influential role in helping the Rapids win their opening three matches of the 2023 Blast campaign, scoring 21 not-out and taking 3-21 in the 15-run victory over Northamptonshire Steelbacks, before his 32 not-out and 2-33 ensured Worcestershire beat Leicestershire Foxes.

He will now get the chance to continue his good form in the white-ball game in the remaining seven matches of the group campaign. 

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"It was my dream to play county cricket, I realised that earlier in the competition, and I am delighted to be available for the remainder of the tournament," said Mir.

"The boys have played some good cricket, and I’m looking forward to helping them win some more games and keep challenging near the top of the table."

Chairman Paul Pridgeon added: "He really impressed during those first three games, and we are confident Usama will do a good job.

"It goes without saying that we are disappointed for Michael and hope he is back on the cricket field sooner rather than later."

Mir and the Rapids are back in T20 action after the one-game County Championship break when they face rivals Birmingham Bears at New Road on Friday (June 16).

They then play Leicestershire Foxes away on Sunday afternoon before they are back at home on Tuesday to host Lancashire Lightning.

The Rapids currently sit fourth in the North Group table having won four of their seven games.