Sean Abbott set for Surrey return for T20 Blast

On Wednesday (February 14), Surrey announced the return of the New South Welsh all-rounder Sean Abbott for the T20 Blast this year. It will be the second Australian all-rounder in the mix for the county, who signed the promising youngster Aaron Hardie only last week. 

Both Hardie and Abbott were part of the Australian setup during their 2-1 home series win over West Indies. However, neither are part of the Australian setup for the upcoming series against New Zealand. 

"Sean is a highly skilled cricketer, and everyone saw last season what he is capable of in red-ball and white-ball cricket," Alec Stewart, Surrey's director of cricket, said. "He had an outstanding impact as a cricketer and as a member of the dressing room… Sean is exactly what we look for in an overseas professional at this club."

Abbott was one of the top performers for Surrey last year, playing an integral role in both the County Championship and the Blast. This time, however, the contract will see Abbott be part of four Championship fixtures and eight T20s from May 10 to June 26. 

With Abbott now signed, Surrey have made their overseas signings for the year, which means a return for Sunil Narine looks unlikely in the tournament's first half. It is yet to be ascertained whether Narine will return to Surrey at some point in the tournament.