Hampshire will step up their search for Warne's replacement (Getty)

Speaking to BBC Radio Solent, the Australian confirmed that he will return to the Rose Bowl in August, a month later than originally thought.

"I'll be coming back after the Twenty20 Cup," he said. "We're looking at three overseas players to cover an eight-week period each during the season."

Hampshire hope to make an announcement next week on Warne's replacements.

Hampshire pair Dimi Mascarenhas and Chris Tremlett could also be absent from the Rose Bowl for a large part of the summer, if they are called up to the England squads. Both are currently on the one-day tour of New Zealand.

BBC Radio Solent will again be providing ball-by-ball commentary of all Hampshire's one-day matches throughout 2008, with the county's former all-rounder Kevan James leading the coverage.

Hampshire kick off their competitive season against local rivals Sussex in the County Championship, on Wednesday, 16 April.