Bailey and Paine return for BBL|04

Hobart crowd favourites George Bailey and Tim Paine will be running out in purple again this summer after committing to the Hurricanes for BBL|04.

The pair join a number of their BBL|03 teammates along with English superstar Alex Hales at Blundstone Arena as the club looks to put together a side to go one step further next season.

Paine has signed a two year deal while Bailey has penned a one year contract with the Hurricanes.

2013-14 was a summer to remember for Bailey. The 31-year-old dominated on the international scene and continued his impressive form when lining up for the Hurricanes.

Bailey played a vital role in guiding the Hurricanes to the Big Final, smashing 90 runs in his two innings for Hobart at a strike rate of 155.17.

Paine too had a fantastic summer in the T20 format. After a slow start to BBL|03, a move up the order saw Paine find some scintillating form, notching up some big scores including a massive 65 in the semi-final against the Stars.

Hurricanes General Manager Michael Roberts says the re-signing of two of Tasmania’s favourites will come as welcome news to Hurricanes members and supporters, as well as a bit of a relief after rival clubs showed interest in both Hurricanes stars.

“Both George and Tim have been an integral part of the club over the past few seasons and we are very pleased that both have chosen to re-sign with the Hurricanes for our next KFC Big Bash League campaign,” said Mr Roberts.

“It is a credit to everyone involved in our organisation, from our coaches to our members and sponsors like Blundstone that players of this calibre want to play for our club.”

The Hurricanes have now signed 11 players out of a possible 18 for BBL|04. There are still six domestic contracts and one international contract to be finalised.

Hobart Hurricanes so far: George Bailey, Travis Birt, Cameron Boyce, Xavier Doherty, Evan Gulbis, Alex Hales, Ben Hilfenhaus, Joe Mennie, Tim Paine, Sam Rainbird, Jon Wells