Matt Renshaw: Somerset sign Australia batter ahead of new season

Matt Renshaw enjoyed two previous spells with Somerset in 2018 and 2022

Somerset have announced the signing of Australia international batter Matt Renshaw.

The 27-year-old, who enjoyed previous spells with the club in 2018 and 2022, will be available for the first seven games of the County Championship.

Renshaw has played 14 Test matches for Australia and Somerset said he will bring "added experience" to the side.

"I can't wait to go back this summer. It's a special place and a great atmosphere around the club," he said.

"I really enjoy my time with Somerset. I've always kept in touch with the guys, and I jumped at the chance of returning for a third time," Renshaw added.

In his previous spells with the club, Renshaw featured in 14 County Championship matches, scoring 1,133 runs at an average of 49.26 with a best of 146.

He reached triple figures five times in red ball cricket, including a century against Yorkshire in 2018.

Director of Cricket, Andy Hurry, told the club website that Renshaw was "a quality performer".

"He has proved that during his previous spells with us as well as domestically in Australia. Everyone can see he is on the cusp of further international recognition.

"He is part of the family here. We are very much look forward to having him back in the fold," said Hurry.

Somerset's County Championship campaign gets under way on 5 April when they take on Kent at the St Lawrence Ground in Canterbury.