Aussie batsman returns to Grace Road for Twenty20 Cup campaign
Leicestershire have signed Brad Hodge to play for them in next season's Twenty20 Cup.
The 35-year-old Australian batsman, who announced his retirement from first-class cricket last month, played for the Foxes in 2003 and 2004 before leaving Grace Road to join Lancashire.
Hodge became a fans' favourite after scoring an unbeaten 302 in a championship fixture against Nottinghamshire and was also part of Leicestershire's Twenty20 Cup-winning side of 2004.
Leicestershire chief executive David Smith said: "I am delighted that Brad is returning to Leicestershire CCC.
"His Twenty20 record is outstanding. He is the world's leading run scorer having scored over 2,300 runs in 73 matches, as well as taking 31 wickets.
"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 recruit ahead of next season, joining compatriot Andrew McDonald, Will Jefferson, James Benning and new captain Matthew Hoggard.
Despite the influx, however, Smith has insisted the club will remain focused on developing their own players.
"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," he added.
"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".
