Kevin O’Brien will feature for Surrey in the NatWest T20 Blast after signing a short-term deal at the Kia Oval.
The Ireland all-rounder, who played three Twenty20s for Surrey last term, returns for the first part of the campaign, which starts on Friday night against Sussex Sharks, before jetting off to play in the Caribbean Premier League.
Speaking to Surrey TV, the 30-year-old, previously of Nottinghamshire, Gloucestershire and Somerset, said: “It’s great to be back. Last year was a quick stop, just three games, but this year I am here for a lot longer.
“I loved it. It helped playing in front of 25-28,000 people for the three games, two at the Oval and one at Lord’s. It always helps playing in front of those big crowds. Hopefully I can hit the ground running like last season and hopefully put in some good performances for the team.
“Hopefully we can play some good cricket, the changing room is full of some world-class players. It’s going to be an exciting tournament to be involved in. Hopefully the crowds come in and we play some good games.”
O’Brien believes the fact that he has represented Surrey in the past will help him to settle in quicker this time around.
He added: “It is easier when you know a few faces in the changing rooms and you can just walk straight in like it was last week. Hopefully that will help me settle in a bit quicker. I’m really looking forward to Friday’s game.”