Umar Akmal: Leicestershire in talks with Pakistan batsman

Akmal can also keep wicket but is best known as a big-hitting batsman

Leicestershire are in advanced talks to sign Pakistan batsman Umar Akmal for part of their T20 Blast campaign this summer, BBC Radio Leicester reports.

The 24-year-old would provide cover for Grant Elliott when the New Zealander is representing his country.

Akmal is an aggressive middle-order batsman who has played 16 Test matches and 111 one-day internationals.

All-rounder Elliott has signed a deal which starts with their opening T20 Blast game with Derbyshire on 22 May.

But the 35-year-old is likely to be involved for his country from 9 June when they begin their one-day series against England.