LONDON, England, CMC – Brian Lara is planning a comeback to competitive action with Surrey in the new English Twenty20 competition, starting in June.

The West Indies batting legend has been practicing in the nets at The Oval this week, and has entered contract talks with the London-based club, which media reports have indicated are “at an early and delicate stage”.

“We have been in discussion with Brian regarding his possible involvement with the club,” said Surrey Chief Executive Officer Paul Sheldon in a statement. “We however, have no further comment to make at this stage.”

Lara, who will be 41 next month, walked away from international cricket three years ago, and retired from competitive duty, following a brief stint with the failed Indian Cricket League.

This may be the first step for Lara toward securing a deal to play in the lucrative Indian Premier League next season.

Reports indicate that Lara appeared to be in good physical condition, and batted “well enough” during Monday’s net practice that was something of a trial to convince Surrey about offering him a T20 contract.

Surrey already have Australian all-rounder Andrew Symonds registered for the T20, and Indian leg-spinner Piyush Chawla may also be available, depending on his commitments for his country.

But the rules of the English T20 competition permit counties to sign four overseas players, with a maximum of two featuring in a single game.

Lara holds the world record for the highest score in a Test of 400 not out made against England six years ago in Antigua, as well as the highest score in a first class innings of 501 not out for Warwickshire against Durham in the 1994 English County Championship at Edgbaston.