Pakistan all-rounder Shahid Afridi will return to the Ageas Bowl after signing for Hampshire’s 2016 Natwest T20 Blast campaign.
Afridi became a fans’ favourite during his mesmerising spell with the county in 2011 where he played a prominent role with the bat and ball in their run to the semi-finals of the T20 domestic competition.
The Pakistan T20 skipper, known for his explosive big-hitting and deceiving leg-spin , will arrive at Hampshire’s T20 Blast campaign and will be available for the entire competition.
“I am very pleased to be returning to Hampshire, I really enjoyed my previous spells there,” Afridi said.
Great to have @SAfridiOfficial back with us for the t20 blast this summer.
— James Vince (@vincey14) February 24, 2016
“I’m looking forward to spending some time on the beautiful south coast and playing some serious cricket in front of the Hampshire fans at the Ageas Bowl.”
With a wealth of T20 experience under his belt, holidng the record for the most wickets in T20 internationals, Afridi will boost the south coast outfit’s challenge to regain the white-ball competition, having won the competition in 2010 and 2012.
Hampshire director of cricket, Giles White added: “This year it has been a challenge to get the top players over for significant periods of the Blast so we are delighted that he is available for the entire tournament.
“Shahid made a huge impression last time he was with us and his return is a major boost ahead of our T20 campaign.”
Source: ECB