Simon Katich returns to Australia tonight - within 24 hours of smashing a 19-year-old Hampshire batting record.

Katich flies back to Sydney for his second season with New South Wales after scoring the most runs by a Hamphsire batsman in a National League season.

Left-hander Katich and Hampshire skipper Crawley arrived at Derby both with 672 runs to their name in the competition this season.

And when Katich scored his 49th run he overtook Chris Smith's aggregate of 720 in the 1984 season. He reached his 50 from 73 balls before holing out to long-on, having struck a straight six off the previous ball from Nathan Dumelow.

Crawley, meanwhile, ended his National League season with 692 runs, the third highest aggregate by a Hampshire player in the competition.

Katich, who stroked seven fours yesterday, may return as a fill-in player next year but leaves Hampshire with bitter sweet memories.

"It would have been nice to win the game but it's good to get promoted," he said. "Credit to Derbyshire, they put pressure on us and unfortunately no one went through to finish the job for us.

"I've just spoken to the boys and thanked them for making me feel so welcome. I've really enjoyed my time with Hampshire but didn't know anything about the record until the boys told me when I was back in the pavilion."

Katich is now looking to take his improved form into Australia's domestic season after rediscovering his best form in the county championship this year.

He added: "In the last couple of years I haven't played anywhere near what I'm capable of and the results have proved that, but I've got my game back on track this season."

Katich now hopes to return to England in 2005 - with Shane Warne and the rest of the Australia squad for the next Ashes series.

"It would be nice to come back and play with Warney next year but I had to make the decision myself. My game is about wearing teams down, it's about concentrating for long periods, and I need the rest so I'm ready for a chance with Australia if and when it comes my way.

"I'm sure Hampshire will get a good replacement and good luck to them."