WORCESTERSHIRE today ended speculation over Andy Bichel's future by revealing that the Australian Test star will be returning to New Road next season.

The 33-year-old paceman, who played for the County in 2001 and 2002, replaces South African quickie Nantie Hayward.

Rumours about Bichel's possible return were rife earlier this week when he was also linked with Warwickshire. Middlesex are also believed to have made an offer.

New Road director of cricket Tom Moody said: "Andy is a quality player who earned great respect among his fellow players and our supporters during his previous period with the club. He gives us so much both on and off the field."

Queenslander Bichel said: "When the opportunity arose to return to Worcestershire it didn't take long for my family and myself to make the decision. We all thoroughly enjoyed our previous spell with Worcestershire and hoped we would be able to return at some stage in the future.

"The team is stronger now and I look forward to playing my part in securing more success for the club."

It is expected that Bichel will be available for the start of the County Championship season in April. During his previous two seasons with the County, Bichel was hugely successful and popular.

In 2001, after taking over as overseas player from fellow Australian pace ace Glenn McGrath, he collected 66 first-class wickets at an average of 27.33 and scored 627 runs (26.13).

The following year, when he had to leave in July to join Australia, he claimed 36 County Championship scalps, including a career-best 9-93 against Gloucestershire.

During his two campaigns Bichel, claimed a total of 102 first-class wickets at an average of 26.50 and 68 one-day scalps at 16.10.