WARWICKSHIRE have signed former player Keith Barker on a 12-month deal – at the age of 38.
The county say the move is designed to bolster the quality and experience of the Bears’ squad for 2026.
The all-rounder has put pen to paper on a short-term agreement, signing for Warwickshire for a second time following a six-year break.
In his decade-long spell at Edgbaston between 2009 and 2018, Barker claimed 357 wickets at an average of 25.51, and chipped in with six first-class centuries.
He was a key part of Warwickshire’s 2012 County Championship win and spent another six successful years in the West Midlands before moving to Hampshire in 2019.
Barker told the Bears official website: “I’m really looking forward to playing for Warwickshire again. I’ve got so many great memories from my previous ten years there, it kind of feels like I am coming home.
“I truly believe the team have got the potential to challenge at the very highest level, and I can’t wait to get back out there and show I can still add something to the side.”
First Team Coach Ian Westwood said the Barker’s ‘mentorship and experience will be invaluable’.
Westwood added: “Keith is a previous Bears alumnus, so to have him coming back home is fantastic. Having spent a decade with us earlier in his career, it feels ‘full-circle’ to have him back on the team.
“This signing represents a strategic short-term signing that brings proven quality and invaluable experience to our squad for 2026.
“Keith’s return also offers a fantastic opportunity for our emerging talents to learn from someone who’s performed consistently at this level for over a decade.
“His mentorship and experience will be invaluable in accelerating their development as they establish themselves in county cricket.
“Keith knows the club, he knows what we’re about, and he brings the kind of winning mentality that will benefit our entire squad.”
