Ajmal had originally been scheduled to link up with the Royals on June 5 after Pakistan's tour of the West Indies. But delays in processing his visa mean he has only just obtained clearance to fly to England.

Worcestershire chief executive David Leatherdale told Press Association Sport: "Visa is sorted and we are hoping Saeed will be here for Friday's game (with Warwickshire). We are excited about what he can do for us after a successful tour of West Indies. He will give us control in the County Championship and something different in Twenty20 cricket."

Ajmal returned five for 82 against England at Edgbaston last summer and had two five-wicket hauls in the Windies. He will stay with Royals until at least end of August although he could miss climax of season as Pakistan have to tour Zimbabwe. He replaces Australian all-rounder Damien Wright, who was Worcestershire's overseas player for first two months of the campaign.

Copyright PPI (Pakistan Press International), 2011