WORCESTERSHIRE spinner Saeed Ajmal has been honoured for his services to Pakistan by being awarded the Sitara-i-Imitiaz — the highest civilian award that can be bestowed by his country.

Saeed, who will be returning to New Road for a third spell this summer, has taken 169 wickets in 33 Tests and 182 in 110 One-Day Internationals for Pakistan.

He is back available for international cricket after an ICC biomechanics test in Chennai approved his remodelled action.

The Sitara-i-Imitiaz recognises individuals who have made an “especially meritorious contribution to the security or national interests of Pakistan, world peace, cultural or other significant public endeavours.”

Saeed received the honour from the president of Pakistan, Mamnoon Hussain.

It consists of a five pointed star made of pure gold with a green emerald in the centre of the star.

Saeed picked up 63 wickets in nine LV= County Championship matches for Worcestershire last season.

The 37-year-old is available for the second half of the 2015 campaign from July.