Worcestershire CCC is delighted to announce that Australian opener Phil Hughes has chosen to extend his contract with the county. This extension will see the 23 year old left-hander arrive at New Road in April for the duration of the 2012 season.

Director of Cricket, Steve Rhodes, commented "We are delighted to have available a player of Phil's stature for the whole 2012 season. This was our original plan when we first set out in search of Phil's signature and it will give the dressing room a real boost. Having spoken to Phil he views playing a full English season as a fantastic opportunity to score plenty of runs and in turn, it is hoped this will bring success to the team. We are looking forward to him joining up with the squad at the start of April for what will be an exciting 2012 season."

Hughes added "I'm thrilled to have been able to agree terms with Worcestershire to extend my 2012 contract to the full County season. I haven't played a full season of domestic cricket for more than two years and I can't wait to get to England and meet my new teammates. I've heard so many positive things about their structure, environment and wicket which are all really favourable for what I want to achieve in the coming 12 months."

Andrew Recovering Well After Knee Operation

After a highly succesful 2011 season, Gareth Andrew ended the season with a knee injury. When rest, recuperation and an initial injection into the knee failed to solve the problem Andrew had an arthroscopic procedure in early December.

The procedure included a micro fracture treatment to the knee and following the operation Andrew is currently undergoing an intense rehabilitation programme, however it is unlikely he will be match-fit until late May.