Brad Hodge Moves North

Lancashire County Cricket Club announce the signing of Australian batsman Brad Hodge as their second overseas player for the 2005 and 2006 seasons subject to 'Cricket Australia' commitments.

Hodge moves north from Leicestershire after turning down a new deal at Grace Road despite leading them to victory in last season's Twenty20 Cup final where he also scored 1,548 Championship runs during the summer at an average of almost 62.

Hodge, 29 who is currently in India with the Australia squad said "When I recently became aware of Lancashire's offer despite interest from other counties, it didn't take long to make up my mind. Lancashire is a big club and I have always enjoyed Old Trafford along with having good experiences of the county from my league cricket days. Obviously the priority is a return to division 1 of the championship and I look forward to teaming up with Murali to hopefully achieve this goal."

Lancashire Cricket Manager Mike Watkinson commented "I am delighted that Brad will be joining us, he is a proven run scorer who will be a great asset to the squad."

Posted by Richard