Foxes sign Hodge for Twenty20

Brad Hodge will be returning to Leicestershire for this summer's domestic Twenty20 cup. Hodge was part of the Foxes squad that won the competition in 2004, cracking an unbeaten 77 in the final against Surrey, and is one of the most experienced Twenty20 players in the world, with 2418 runs and 31 wickets in the format.

"I am delighted that Brad is returning to Leicestershire CCC," said David Smith, the Leicestershire chief executive. "His Twenty20 record is outstanding. At 35 years of age, Brad will bring a wealth of experience to next summer's Twenty20 campaign for Leicestershire. We are delighted to have him on board.''

Hodge is Leicestershire's fifth new signing for the 2010 season. He will be joining Andrew McDonald, his Victoria team-mate who will be filling the overseas role for the county this summer, as well as Will Jefferson, James Benning and Matthew Hoggard, who has signed a three-year deal to become Leicestershire's new captain.

"We are still totally committed to producing players through our development system but it is important we have the right balance between senior and younger players," added Smith. "It was always our intention to bring new players into the club. However, we had to wait for players to finish contracts and move on before being able to add to the squad''.