Bichel to join Hampshire

Andy Bichel has signed a five-week stint with Hampshire beginning in August. Bichel, who last played for Australia in December 2003 against India, would join his team-mate Shane Watson. The two players will fill in for Shane Warne and Simon Katich, who will be engaged in the Ashes series.

"While I certainly don't wish any mishap for any of the bowlers in the Australian squad, hopefully the selectors will keep me in mind if something developed where they felt they needed another quick," Bichel was quoted as saying in The Australian.

Bichel had played for three seasons with Worcestershire which ended last year. He also holds the Queensland record for most number of wickets in a season.