Kevin Pietersen has signed a contract with Surrey to play in this season's County Championship as he steps up his attempts to get back into the England Test team.
The controversial batsman came to an agreement with Sunrisers Hyderabad to release him from his Indian Premier League duties on Tuesday so that he could concentrate on playing county cricket in England.
And it has been confirmed that the South Africa-born star will return to Surrey and is available for their season-opener against Glamorgan on April 19.
Writing about the deal in his column for The Telegraph, Pietersen says his decision was motivated by a burning desire to do all he can to return to the international scene.
"When I heard [incoming England and Wales Cricket Board chairman] Colin Graves say that I would be considered for selection again if I play county cricket and score runs I realised I had the opportunity for a fresh start," he wrote.
"I have spent three weeks thinking about it and speaking to different people to work out the best decision.
"Even if this does not work out and I do not get back in the England team, I will at least end my career knowing I gave it another shot. I would kick myself for a long time if I walked away now without having a go."
Pietersen, who stated that he will be donating his full Surrey wage to his charity foundation, has not represented England since his unceremonious sacking last year following the disastrous Ashes whitewash in Australia.
The 34-year-old subsequently released his autobiography that criticised the England hierarchy and claimed a culture of bullying existed within the team.
Earlier this month, selector James Whitaker stated that Pietersen was not part of England's plans, but Pietersen has remained determined to force his way into contention.