Udal returns to game with Middlesex

Former England spinner Shaun Udal has come out of retirement to join Middlesex on a two-year deal.

The 38-year-old retired from first-class cricket at the end of the 2007 season after 18 years with Hampshire.

"I'm delighted to be given this unexpected opportunity to extend my playing career at Middlesex and am very excited at the thought of playing for another two years," Udal told the club's website, www.middlesexccc.com.

"Retirement, in hindsight, was the wrong choice for me and, due to John Emburey and Middlesex's persistence, I've been given a great chance to continue doing something I love and prove to people that I am still one of the best at what I do."

Udal, who had made plans to play minor counties cricket with Berkshire in 2008, cited the lack of opportunities due to Shane Warne's presence at Hampshire among his reasons for quitting.

Udal played four Tests for England after winning surprise call-ups for the winter tours of Pakistan and India in 2005-06.

He had been in the international wilderness for 10 years after playing 10 one-day internationals in 1994 and 1995.

Emburey, the Middlesex director of cricket, said: "We are very fortunate to have gained the services of Shaun Udal.

"Shaun's experience, knowledge and match-winning capabilities will complement a very determined Middlesex team in 2008."