Sydney, Jul 24 (IANS): West Indies batsman Chris Gayle has again signed with Sydney Thunder for another season of Australia's Twenty20 Big Bash.

The 32-year-old left-hander turned out for the Thunder last season and was a hit at the ANZ Stadium, smashing 252 runs at an average of 42.

"I am really happy to have re-signed with the Thunder," Gayle said Monday.

"After my experience last year, I always wanted to return. I love Sydney so I cannot wait to get amongst the guys again. The Thunder squad is looking good with a solid mix of youth and experience," he added.

Gayle is currently in Antigua where he is preparing for the opening Test against New Zealand starting Wednesday.

He was only recently recalled to the West Indies side following a 15-month hiatus, owing to an impasse with the West Indies Cricket Board.

During his time away from international cricket, he increased his Twenty20 stocks significantly with successful stints in Zimbabwe, Bangladesh and the cash-rich Indian Premier League.

Gayle will be joined at Thunder by Pakistani all-rounder Shahid Afridi who played for Melbourne Renegades last season.

Afridi, a big-hitting right-hander and wily leg-spinner, said Gayle's presence at the outfit was a big plus for him.

"Chris is a great guy and a tremendous player. It is always fun playing alongside him and I look forward to seeing him annihilate bowling attacks once again," Afridi said.

Gayle is one of the four West Indies players already confirmed for the December 7 to January 19 showpiece.

Mystery off-spinner Sunil Narine will debut for the Sydney Sixers, batsman Kieron Pollard will play for the Adelaide Strikers while fast bowler Kemar Roach has signed for Brisbane Heat.