Bailey makes Ageas Bowl return

The 34-year-old, who will be available in all three formats across the next two seasons, returns to the Ageas Bowl following a previous spell with the club back in 2013.

The batsman said: ‘I’m thrilled to be returning to Hampshire for the next two years.

‘I had a great time at the Ageas Bowl back in 2013 and I’m really excited about the progress the squad has made over the last few years.

‘I’m looking forward to doing my bit to contribute to a successful period ahead with Hampshire Cricket.’

Bailey is hugely experienced at both domestic and international level, totalling 121 appearances across all three formats since making his debut for Australia in 2012, while also featuring on no less than 514 occasions domestically.

The right-hander is known for his hard-hitting talents in the middle order, accumulating more than 21,000 runs across his 12-year career to date.

Hampshire director of cricket, Giles White, said: ‘George has an excellent record across all formats of the game, has captained his country and is highly regarded as a person.

‘He made a lasting impression during his previous stint with us and we are delighted to have him at Hampshire for the next couple of years.’

Bailey, who has featured for Middlesex and Sussex as well as Hampshire during his time in England, has experience playing in all major T20 competitions across the world, including the Indian Premier League and Big Bash League.

The senior batsman is also widely regarded as a natural leader having captained his Australian state side, Tasmania, as well as enjoying stints as Australian limited-overs captain in two World T20 campaigns and during the 2015 50-over World Cup.