Hodge returns to Foxes
Jan 11 2010 - 14:33:22
Leicestershire have completed the signing of Australian batsman Brad Hodge for next season's Twenty20 campaign.
Hodge, 35, who had two successful seasons at Grace Road in 2003 and 2004 before linking up with Lancashire from 2005, was part of the Foxes' Twenty20 Cup-winning team in his second spell at the club.
Leicestershire chief executive David Smith said: "I am delighted that Brad is returning to Leicestershire CCC. His Twenty20 record is outstanding. He is the world's leading run-scorer having scored over 2,300 runs in 73 matches, as well as taking 31 wickets."
He added: "At 35 years of age, Brad will bring a wealth of experience to next summer's Twenty20 campaign for Leicestershire. We are delighted to have him on board."
Hodge is a fifth new recruit for the 2010 season, joining compatriot Andrew McDonald, Will Jefferson, James Benning and new captain Matthew Hoggard.
Nevertheless, Smith insists the club remain focused on strengthening their team from within.
"We are still totally committed to producing players through our development system but it is important we have the right balance between senior and younger players," he said.
"It was always our intention to bring new players into the club, however, we had to wait for players to finish contracts and move on before being able to add to the squad."