Pakistani all-rounder Shahid Afridi has agreed to play the first six matches of this year's T20 Blast for Northants.

The 34-year-old, who holds the record for most sixes in one-day international cricket, will arrive at the County Ground on May 15.

"This is a very exciting signing for us. Shahid is without doubt the most outstanding spin bowling all-rounder in one-day international cricket of the last five years. He is a fierce competitor and undoubted match winner with bat and ball." head coach David Ripley told the club's official website.

Meanwhile, Afridi added: "I am looking forward to playing in the T20 Blast. I have always enjoyed playing in England, where I have always found the crowds good natured and knowledgeable. I am very happy to be joining a good Northants squad in the search for Twenty20 success."

The deal is subject to clearance from the Pakistan Cricket Board.