Lancashire sign Ashwell Prince

Ashwell Prince has signed for Lancashire as the county's interim overseas player for 2010. He will be at Old Trafford until the arrival of Kumar Sangakkara, the Sri Lanka captain, following Sangakkara's international commitments.

Prince, 32, played for Lancashire at the beginning of last season when he covered for VVS Laxman and had an impressive run, averaging 52.60 from six first-class matches.

He is set to open the batting for South Africa in the final Test at the Wanderers against England and despite his struggles so far the series, where he has made 78 runs at 13.00, Lancashire are thrilled to have a player of his experience available.

"We are fortunate that a world-class batsman like Ashwell is available for the start of the season. During his short stay with us last year, he delivered the goods with some outstanding performances and I know he is determined to pick-up where he left off," said Mike Watkinson, Lancashire's director of cricket.

Prince himself is looking forward to linking up with his former team-mates again. "When Lancashire asked me if I would be interested in returning this season, I didn't hesitate in saying yes," he said. "It's a great club, with excellent facilities and I really enjoyed the camaraderie of the dressing room and the warm reception I received from the supporters."

Peter Moores, the Lancashire coach, said: "Ashwell played an important part in our early success last year with his quality as a player and his ability to perform under pressure. His approach to the game was extremely professional and his enthusiasm to play was a testament to how he conducted himself during his time with us."