Katich returns and Adams takes reins

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Simon Katich strikes out for Hampshire against Essex six years ago. The left-handed Australia batsman will return to the Rose Bowl next year

Hampshire have announced the signing of Australia opening batsman Simon Katich and the appointment of Jimmy Adams as club captain for the 2012 season.

Katich, who has played in 56 Tests for his country, has signed a one-year deal to play as the county’s overseas player and, because he has not had his central contract renewed by Australia, the left-hander is expected to be available all season.

It means a return to the club he represented between 2003 and 2005, winning their player of the year award in his first year.

Katich said: “I'm really looking forward to going back to the Rose Bowl as I have many good friends and memories from my previous time at the club over a number of seasons from 2003-2005.

“Hampshire have been great to my family and I during my career and I am looking forward to helping the club continue to have success.”

Hampshire manager Giles White added: "We're delighted with the signing of Simon. He comes back to us, having been with us before, because he's enjoyed his time here and we've really enjoyed it when he's played for us in the past. He's everything we need in an overseas player at this stage.

"He's a quality player, first and foremost. But he's a very good man as well and the lads respect him highly so he's a good bloke to have around the changing room. His availability's very good too so, with all that coupled together, we're very pleased."

Meanwhile, Adams will replace the outgoing Dominic Cork as club captain next term.

It was announced that former England all-rounder Cork would be released at the end of this month and it should come as no surprise that Adams has been given the role after he led Hampshire for the final three games of their LV= County Championship campaign.

Kolpak signings Johann Myburgh and Friedel de Wet, as well as academy product Jamie Miller, have been released ahead of next season.