91�ȱ�

Warwickshire have re-signed Pakistan international paceman Hassan Ali on a deal for the 2024 season.

The 29-year-old, who has so far played in six of Pakistan's eight matches at the current Cricket World Cup, is the Bears' second winter signing and also, like George Garton, a fast bowler.

"Hassan was keen to return," said Bears first-team coach Mark Robinson.

"He fitted in well last year. He wanted to be part of another push for trophies with the Bears."

He is scheduled to play in all Warwickshire's County Championship and T20 Blast matches until the end of July, with an option to return in September.

Hassan, who first came to English county cricket to join Lancashire in 2022, took 24 wickets in six in Championship games in 2023 - and a further nine in the T20 Blast.

"He's a quality performer," said Robinson. "A proven wicket-taker, who pulled off some decent cameo roles with the bat as well."

Hassan said: "I feel I'm playing in my second home. I'm very comfortable in the dressing room.

"I didn't feel like I was playing in another country or another franchise. I can't wait to come back. "

Warwickshire, who were without the injured Liam Norwell for all of last season and Craig Miles for a large part of it, as well as England all-rounder Chris Woakes, are having a winter overhaul of their pace department.

They lost three fast bowlers at the end of the 2023 season, with Ethan Brookes moving to Worcestershire and George Garrett to Kent, while Manraj Johal was released.

While the Bears players report back for winter training next week, Hassan is expected to join up with the squad for pre-season training in late March, following the Pakistan Super League, just in time for the 2024 County Championship season.