 Hodge hit four Championship centuries during the 2003 season |
Australian Brad Hodge has accepted a contract to return to Leicestershire for the 2004 season. The 28-year-old set a new county record with an innings of 302 not out against Nottinghamshire last summer.
And he was their leading scorer in the Championship with 1,293 runs at an average of 53.87.
Director of cricket James Whitaker said: "I am delighted that he has agreed to play for the club during the 2004 season."
He added: "I know that Brad's enthusiasm and desire for continuous improvement can influence the development of all the players at the club."
Hodge, who has scored two one-day centuries and and a first-class ton for Victoria this winter, added: "I am very excited about the opportunity of again playing for Leicestershire.
"During the 2004 cricket season I will be very keen to help the club, both on and off the field, to the best of my abilities."
West Indian Vasbert Drakes will not be returning to Grace Road next year, and Trevor Ward, Jamie Grove and Matt Whiley have also been released.
The club will also be without veteran paceman Devon Malcolm, who has decided to retire.
But on a positive note, bowling all-rounder Jon Dakin is returning to his first club after a spell at Essex.
Leicestershire's results were poor during the summer and the club were relegated to Division Two in the Championship and one-day National League.
MMIX
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