Somerset have confirmed that West Indies batsman Chris Gayle will return to the club to compete in this summer's T20 Blast tournament.

The 36-year-old, who scored 328 runs, including 22 fours and 29 sixes, in three appearances last season, has signed a six-match contract.

"I really enjoyed my time at Somerset last year," said Gayle. "It's a great club and the supporters were absolutely incredible. I'm looking forward to seeing the fans again and to scoring some more runs. Hopefully I can help the club make it through to the later stages of the NatWest T20 Blast."

Director of Cricket Matt Maynard added: "We are absolutely delighted to have secured the services of Chris Gayle once again. He is a genuinely world class player and was absolutely phenomenal for us last year.

"He is probably the biggest name in the sport at the moment and his performances in the Big Bash recently have only underlined his status as one of the most explosive players that cricket has ever seen. Taunton was absolutely rocking when he was out in the middle last year and Somerset fans can look forward to more of the same in 2016."

Gayle was involved in controversy earlier this month when he asked Network Ten reporter Mel McLaughlin out for a drink during a live interview at the end of a Big Bash League match.

The batsman was fined around £5,000 for his remarks and issued an apology.