SHANE WARNE has admitted he wants to return to play for Hampshire next summer.
The Australian Test wicket record holder was Hampshire's top wicket taker last summer, and although the Ashes tour means he is not available this summer, it was no secret Hampshire wanted him to return in 2002, providing they could come up with the cash.
Warne's own plans, and Australia's international schedule were always going to be a potential stumbling block, but speaking from Down Under, where he is back in the Aussie one-day international team after missing a large portion of the domestic season with a broken finger, the world's greatest leg-spinner gave his clearest indication yet that he wants to return to Hampshire next sumer.
He said: "I'd love the opportunity to play county cricket again. Obviously, international cricket is our number one priority but if we have an off-season - which hopefully we will have in 2002, then I might don the colours again."
Warne raked in a salary of around £150,000 from Hampshire for his summer's work.
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