Surrey have announced that they have recruited Australian batsman Ricky Ponting for two months.

The club have confirmed that Ponting, who retired from international cricket last year, will join up with his new teammates during June and July as cover for captain Graeme Smith, who is expected to play in the ICC Champions Trophy.

"I'm really excited to be playing for Surrey this season," Ponting told the club's official website. "They are a forward thinking and historic club, and play at one of the greatest grounds in the world. It hasn't been the friendliest place for me but now it will be my home for two months this summer.

"I'd like to think I can contribute a significant amount to the club, on and off the field, and am looking forward to getting stuck in as soon as I arrive."

Surrey team director Chris Adams added: "We knew we would lose Graeme to the ICC Champions Trophy in June. That given, we focused on recruiting the best possible replacement and, in Ricky Ponting, we have signed one of the greatest batsmen of the modern era."

Ponting will be available for all forms of the game.