Somerset bring Petersen back for 2014

Somerset have secured the return of South Africa opening batsman Alviro Petersen as their overseas player for 2014.

His spell at Taunton last season was largely successful but was interrupted twice by international call-ups as Petersen was unexpectedly recalled to the South Africa ODI team.

However, next year South Africa are largely disengaged during the English season - only scheduled for a brief tour of Zimbabwe in August - and Petersen is expected to be available to Somerset for a majority of the summer.

Petersen provided some bright spots in a campaign of struggle for Somerset last season as they narrowly staved off relegation in the County Championship.

He made centuries in his first two appearances, helping secure a draw at The Oval before almost setting up victory over Warwickshire, and scored 562 runs at 46.83.

"I am delighted to have signed for the 2014 season, and look forward to contributing to the club once more," Petersen said. "I thoroughly enjoyed my time at the club last year.

"The support I received from supporters, players, administrators and coaches was indeed special. I'm proud and very happy to be associated with such special people and supporters."

Dave Nosworthy, Somerset director of cricket, hailed the signing as "very good news" for the club. "We are all delighted that he has committed. Alviro is a quality player and a quality person, and we look forward to his contributions both on and off the field.

"Last season Alviro's tenure was somewhat disrupted by his unexpected recall back into the South African ODI squad - but this coming season we envisage having Alviro around with us for the entire season, apart from a possible short Test Series against Zimbabwe as per the ICC's Future Tours programme."

Having taken over from club legend Brian Rose before the start of last season, Nosworthy will enter 2014 under pressure after a difficult start to his tenure and rumours of tensions between him and captain Marcus Trescothick.

"This coming season is an important season for us," Nosworthy said. "As usual we canvassed and researched player options and balances thoroughly and always in the best interests of the team. Ultimately Alviro remained our stand-out option and it's great news that we'll have a familiar face once again gracing our beloved surrounds."