COREY Anderson will return for a third spell at Somerset in 2020 having signed as the club's second overseas player for the Vitality Blast.

The New Zealand international, who impressed in Somerset colours in 2017 and 2018, will be available for all 14 group games as well as the quarter-final, should Somerset qualify.

Somerset director of cricket Andy Hurry said: “Corey has made a big impression both on and off the field for the club in his two previous stints with us.

“He was one of the first names mentioned when it came to considering our overseas players for next season because he is one of the best T20 players in the world and he was extremely popular with the playing staff and also with our members and supporters.

“His contributions in 2018 were absolutely outstanding and he was one of the main reasons that we reached Finals Day that year.

"I can’t speak highly enough of him as a competitor and as a man.

"We are delighted that he will be joining us again in 2020.”

Anderson said: “I’m looking forward to playing for Somerset again next summer.

"The club has a great squad and the atmosphere in the dressing room is one of the best I’ve experienced.

“The supporters are very knowledgeable and get right behind the team.

"It’s a great place to play cricket and hopefully I can help the club go one better than we did in 2018 and make the Vitality Blast final.”

Anderson scored 514 runs in 16 matches at an average of 42.83 with a strike rate of 169 in that run to Finals Day in 2018 and, if he can stay injury free, will prove a big asset once more this summer.

The 29-year-old has played 13 Tests, 49 ODIs and 31 IT20s for his country.