South African left-hander agrees to third spell at Old Trafford
County champions Lancashire have signed South Africa batsman Ashwell Prince as their main overseas player for 2012.
Prince, 34, will be joining them for a third time, following successful spells in 2009 and 2010, after inking a deal to play in the LV= County Championship and CB40.
Prince's arrival bolsters a squad which won the club's first outright County Championship title in 77 years last season without an overseas player.
The arrangement also suggests Lancashire are keeping options open for the Friends Life t20 competition, in which two overseas players are permitted.
"I am delighted to be returning to Lancashire for the 2012 season," said Prince, who has scored 11 centuries in 66 Tests.
"I love the place and how the lads go about their work. I'm really looking forward to joining up with the squad in early April and contributing to a successful campaign."
Lancashire earned praise last year for success based around a largely homegrown squad.
Experience
But the Red Rose county have since lost a top-order batsman with the retirement of former captain Mark Chilton.
"Ashwell is a world-class batsman who has a wealth of experience and talent," said director of cricket Mike Watkinson.
"He will bring additional quality to the top order and will have a positive influence on the squad. We are delighted to welcome him back to Old Trafford."
Head coach Peter Moores added: "It is fantastic news that Ashwell has rejoined the club.
"He is a tough competitor who has enjoyed success here before and he will bring some maturity to an emerging squad."
