Thursday 25 February 2016 09:49, UK
Hampshire have signed Pakistan all-rounder Shahid Afridi for their entire NatWest T20 Blast campaign.
'Boom Boom' became a fans favourite at Hampshire in his last spell with the club in 2011, helping them to the semi-finals and playing in 10 matches.
The big-hitting all-rounder, who turns 36 next week and will captain his country in the forthcoming ICC World T20.
Hampshire director of cricket Giles White, who already has South African fast bowler Ryan McLaren as his overseas player in all formats, said: "Shahid had a big impact when he was here last time and to have him back for the whole tournament is a real boost.
"He's a world-class bowler and has great ability with the bat.
"This year it has been a challenge to get the top players over for significant periods of the Blast so we are delighted he is available for the entire tournament."
Afridi said: "I am very pleased to be returning to Hampshire. 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.
Afridi, who has played 27 Tests, 398 one-dayers and 90 T20s for Pakistan, has for much of the last 12 months played exclusively in the shortest format, for which he holds the record for most wickets.
Afridi played for Northamptonshire last year and characteristically saved his best performance of the competition for the final, taking 3-14 with his leg-breaks, as the Steelbacks came up just short against Lancashire.
