KYLE Abbott is prepared to sacrifice his South Africa career to return to Hampshire on a long-term deal, according to reports.

Abbott, who helped Hampshire win promotion to the first division of the Specsavers County Championship in 2014, took 5-101 as South Africa won the first Test against Sri Lanka by 206 runs at Port Elizabeth last week.

It took his tally to 39 wickets at just 21.3 apiece in ten Tests.

He is currently playing in the second Test and has also played 28 one-day internationals (34 wickets at 30.9) and 21 T20 internationals (26 wickets at 22.2).

Cricinfo.com is reporting that Abbott is set to announce his retirement from international cricket later this month, having agreed a three-year-deal with Hampshire.

Hampshire are not commenting on the report, which says they fear a U- turn with Abbott having played in the Proteas’ last five Tests since being recalled in November. 

Abbott, who has also played T20 cricket for Middlesex and Worcestershire in the last two seasons, would be a valuable addition to Hampshire's squad.

He took 36 wickets at 20.33 in nine second division matches for Hampshire in 2014, as well as seven wickets in 12 T20 appearances, and provides the sort of firepower that is needed if the county is to avoid another relegation scrap.

Fidel Edwards has returned to fitness but at 35 is in the twilight of his career, while Reece Topley, who is yet to bowl for Hampshire after breaking his hand while batting on debut last April, will no doubt be away with England at times.

James Tomlinson, Abbott’s new-ball partner when he was last with Hampshire, retired at the end of last season.

And although Brad Wheal promises much, he is still only 20. Abbott, who is a good enough batsman to go in at No 8 for his country, would be a fantastic mentor for his fellow South African.

Hampshire’s interest in him also explains the decision not to re-sign his compatriot Ryan McLaren, 33, who was allowed to move to Lancashire in October despite his outstanding 2016 at The Ageas Bowl.