by Glenn Pearson

A return to the Indian Premier League next year is not out of the question for Azhar Mahmood, who hopes to be snapped up in the 2013 auction.

Promotion to No.3 in Kent’s batting order for limited overs cricket proved a real master stroke at the beginning of last season as the former Pakistan international, who now qualifies as a British citizen, displayed the type of form with the bat that saw him become a major force in world cricket.

The 37-year-old all rounder was signed as an overseas pro for the Auckland Aces in the New Zealand domestic T20 before featuring for the Dhaka Gladiators in the Bangladesh Premier League at the start of 2012.

Despite visa issues which delayed his arrival, he then went on to star for the Kings XI Punjab in the IPL, taking 14 wickets in 11 games and scoring 186 runs at an average of 23.

He said: “It was my first time in the competition and it was a real success so I am looking forward to going back again next year.

“The atmosphere, the hype and the crowd makes it pretty amazing.

“It’s the closest you’ll get to international cricket. I had a wonderful tournament and the Kings XI Punjab are keen on having me back next year.

“I had a wonderful season all-round having played in New Zealand, Bangladesh and in the IPL, so I’m just looking to take that into this season for Kent.”