Panesar made his mark as a teenager at Northants a decade ago

England spinner Monty Panesar has made a £10,000 donation to former club Northants following confirmation he is joining Sussex on a three-year deal.

The left-armer, currently playing domestic cricket in South Africa for the Highveld Lions, signed at Wantage Road as a 17-year-old in 1999.

Panesar said: "The day has finally come to venture into pastures new.

"It's been a wonderful experience and I'll cherish all the memories of Northants Cricket," he added.

"I'd like to thank all the senior members - in particular [current head coach] David Capel for playing an important part in my development and growth in the game.

This is a magnanimous gesture from Monty and it's well received by everyone here Northants coach David Capel

"Most importantly, I don't forget the fans from Northants who've also played such a big part in my life.

"I wish Northants Cricket and all the people involved at the club the very best for many years to come."

Former England all-rounder Capel was in charge of the club's development programme when Panesar joined Northants a decade ago.

He said: "This is a magnanimous gesture from Monty and it's well received by everyone here.

"It's pleasing that Monty has recognised the support and guidance he has received during the formative stages of his already distinguished career.

"He is a much-loved person and cricketer and I feel sure he'll return to the England team.

"I look forward to him pulling on the England shirt again and watching him celebrating taking important Test match wickets in the future."

Capel has told the BBC that Northants are likely to sign another spinner to bolster the squad, following the departures of Panesar and fellow slow left-armer Graeme White.

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