New Zealand international Kane Williamson has continued his affiliation with county champions Yorkshire by re-signing for a third time.
The 25-year-old, who enjoyed spells at Headingley in 2013 and 2014, will be available to play three County Championship matches, eight NatWest T20 Blast fixtures and three Royal London One-Day Cup games between June 9 and July 18.
Williamson became the first New Zealand batsman to register more than 2,000 runs in international cricket in a calendar year when compiling 2,633 at an average of 65.82 in 2015.
First-team coach Jason Gillespie, having recently enjoyed a succesesful stint in the Big Bash League with Adelaide Strikers, said: “We are delighted to welcome Kane back to Headingley. He is a quality player and person.
“The opportunity to secure one of, if not, the best players in the world is one you have to take up.
“His value as a player is beyond question. His attitude, work ethic and leadership as an overseas player is brilliant.
“We can’t wait to welcome Kane back to his second home at our great club.”
Williamson played an integral role in Yorkshire ending a 13-year wait for a Championship title in 2014, hitting 629 runs at 57.18 in 13 innings.
He was due to return to Leeds towards the latter stages of their second consecutive triumph last term, but the return to fitness of overseas player Aaron Finch meant his services were not required.
The right-hander, joint second with Yorkshire and England’s Joe Root in the International Cricket Council Test batting rankings, said: “I am very excited to be heading back to Yorkshire.
“I have certainly enjoyed my first two stints there and I am looking forward to joining the team for a third term this summer.
“To be fortunate to play for Yorkshire, a great set-up with a top bunch of people, can only help me improve and enhance my game.
“There is a professional structure in place that is at the heart of what they do. Having been there a couple of times it is enjoyable being part of a successful team that are hungry for ongoing success.
“It is an environment where you are encouraged to improve and the support you get from the Yorkshire followers is the best in the domestic game in England. It is a special place.”
Source: ECB