Middlesex re-sign Paul Stirling as Mitch Marsh replacement for T20 Blast

The Ireland batter returns to Lord's for the first five matches of the competition after it was confirmed the Australia allrounder would not be fulfilling his deal

County Championship Essentials: Surrey v Middlesex

Paul Stirling will return to Middlesex for the first five matches of this season's T20 Blast.

The 30-year-old replaces Mitch Marsh, whose spell at Lord's has been cancelled after he was selected for Australia's white-ball tour of the West Indies.

Stirling will be available for the matches against Surrey (June 10), Kent (June 11), Hampshire (June 15), Gloucestershire (June 17) and Glamorgan (June 18).

He spent 10 seasons with Middlesex between 2010 and 2019, scoring 2,246 runs in 89 Blast appearances.

"I have such fond memories and many friends within the club and I am excited to entertain the public once more," Stirling, who has played three Tests, 125 one-day internationals and 78 T20s for Ireland, said.

"I am looking to put on my best performances for the world to see, and hopefully a successful stint will create further opportunities, potentially in the Hundred, and further afield, as I would like to test myself in all competitions globally."

An announcement regarding Marsh's replacement for the remainder of the competition will be made in due course. 

Afghanistan spinner Mujeeb ur Rahman will fill the other overseas berth in Stuart Law's squad.

Managing director Angus Fraser added: "Losing Mitch Marsh is obviously a blow, but if a team is looking for a strong, clean striker of a cricket ball, Paul is highly qualified to fill the role.

"Paul made a huge impression on Middlesex members and supporters during his initial time with the club and it will be great to see him once again wearing a Middlesex shirt and representing the club."