DUBAI: As Indian Premier League (IPL) 2015 edition all set to began from April 8, Pakistan star all-rounder Azhar Mahmood signed contract with Defending champions.

According to reports, Kolkata Knight Riders had to make two changes to their squad a few days ahead of eight edition of IPL, as injured Jimmy Neesham and Chris Lynn were out of the tournament.

KKR signed Azhar Mahmood has come into the side for Neesham while Johan Botha has been brought in for Lynn.

Lynn suffered a hamstring injury which has caused him to miss IPL. He was retained by KKR but now has to make way for South African all-rounder, Botha. The 32-year old experienced campaigner was bought for his base price, INR 1,00,00,000.

New Zealand all-rounder, Neesham too had to pull out of the eight edition of the T20 tournament due to injury.

His replacement, Mahmood, was inducted into the squad for the base price of INR 50,00,000.