Hampshire have re-signed George Bailey as the club’s overseas player on a two-year deal.

The 34-year-old, who will be available in all three formats, returns after a four-year absence.

Bailey said: "I had a great time at the Ageas Bowl back in 2013 and am 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.”

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've spoken to him a number of times since.

"How the first part of 2017 pans out in terms of his availability depends on his Australia commitments but there will be periods where he will be with us for a significant amount of time.

"He's keen to play county cricket and make a difference and will add a lot ot the changing room."

Bailey replaces South African all-rounder Ryan Mclaren as Hampshire's principal overseas player.

"We've struggled with the bat early on for the last couple of years and have lost players to England - Vincey being away at the beginnign of last year didn't help," continued White.

"It's difficult to get overseas players around for significant amounts of time who engage with the club but we have that.

"The fact George is here for two years gives us something to build around."

Bailey has also played for Middlesex and Sussex and in all the major T20 leagues including the IPL and Big Bash.

He captains Tasmania, for whom he scored the 19th first-class century of his career last week, and has also skippered Australia in two World T20 campaigns and during last year's 50-over World Cup.

Bailey has scored 547 County Championship runs at 49.7, including 263 runs at 37.57 in his five matches for Hampshire in April/May 2013.

He played three matches as Adam Voges’ replacement for county champions Middlesex last year, scoring 284 runs at 71.

Like Michael Carberry, Bailey made his five Test appearances during the 2013-14 Ashes, contributing 183 runs at 26.14.

His white-ball record at international level is outstanding; 3004 one-day international runs at 41.15 and 470 T20 international runs at 26.11 (strike rate 140.71).

Overall, Bailey has amassed 7,791 first-class runs at 39.75, 7,309 List A runs at 35.82 and 2,838 in the shortest form, at an average of 28.38 and a strike rate of 131.02.