Jeetan Patel: New Zealand spinner to rejoin Warwickshire for 2013

Warwickshire have re-signed New Zealand off-spinner Jeetan Patel as their overseas player for the 2013 season.

Patel, 32, who took 51 wickets in last summer's County Championship triumph, is scheduled for a fourth season, having first joined the Bears in 2009.

Warwickshire will be under new management next year, following Ashley Giles's appointment with England.

But Patel said: "I see no reason why we can't push harder for success in all formats next season."

He added: "Winning the County Championship with Warwickshire is one of the highlights of my career.

"The new facilities at Edgbaston have made it one of the best grounds in the world and Birmingham has certainly become my adopted home.

"I'm looking forward to hopefully playing a major part in more success for Warwickshire."

Patel will join up with Warwickshire in time for the start of their County Championship defence against Derbyshire at Edgbaston on 10 April.

"Jeets is a world-class spinner who's produced many outstanding performances, and is a great role model to the younger players in the squad," added Giles.

"While I'm moving on to my role with the England team, I'm delighted Warwickshire have been able to secure him as the overseas player for the 2013 season before I depart."

Patel's first spell with Warwickshire in 2009 was notable for his maiden first-class century, scoring 120 against Yorkshire - a record for a Bears' number 10 batsman.

But he has since gone to claim 74 Championship wickets in 21 matches, as well as claiming 50 Test scalps in 16 appearances for his country.