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Division Two champions Hampshire sign Jackson Bird and Yasir Arafat for 2015 season

Jackson Bird: Has agreed three-month Hampshire stint
Image: Jackson Bird: Has agreed three-month Hampshire stint

Hampshire have signed Jackson Bird and Yasir Arafat for next season.

Australian fast bowler Bird will spend three months at the AEGEAS bowl and play in all formats, while Pakistan all-rounder Arafat will be available only for limited-overs matches.

Hampshire, who won Division Two this year and will play top-flight Championship crcket in 2015, also hope to bring South Africa bowler Kyle Abbott back to the county once Bird's stint is up.

Director of cricket Giles White said: "We're delighted to have Jackson and Yasir on board for next season - they will both add a lot of quality to our bowling attack and hopefully they will help us build on a successful 2014 season.

"Jackson comes highly recommended and at a time of the year that is likely to suit his style of bowling. We are looking forward to having him about and hope he has a positive influence on our return to Division One.

"Yasir has the flexibility to play all of our one-day cricket, boasts an excellent record and has committed to the club for further campaigns. An added bonus is that his qualification status may allow him to play as a local during his time with us.

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Of Abbott he said: "Kyle is someone we will continue to keep in touch with as he fitted into the group exceptionally well this year and has voiced a desire to return if international commitments allow."

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