Wednesday 27 January 2016 08:34, UK
Yorkshire have secured the services of New Zealand's top batsman Kane Williamson for a third time to beef up their squad for six weeks in the summer.
The top-order batsman will be available from June 9 to July 18 where he play in all formats, including three County Championship matches, eight NatWest T20 Blast games and three Royal London One-Day Cup matches.
The 25-year-old right-hander has impressed over the last 12 months on the international stage and Yorkshire can now boast a wealth of batting talent with Williamson linking up alongside England's Joe Root.
"I am very excited to be heading back to Yorkshire," said Williamson, who became the first New Zealand batsman in a calendar year to score over 2,000 runs in all international cricket.
"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."
In all international matches for the Black Caps in 2015, Williamson racked up a record 2,633 runs at an average of 65.82, which included eight hundreds and 13 half-centuries over the calendar year.
Yorkshire's first team coach Jason Gillespie added: "We are delighted to welcome Kane (Williamson) 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 also captained New Zealand to a two-one T20 series win over Pakistan at home earlier this month.
He is currently captaining the national side in the one-day series against Pakistan and will lead the team at the World Twenty20 in India in March.
