As they prepare for another season in Division Two of the Championship, Moody is hoping last season's promotion in the one-day National League will provide a spur to the players.

"I am very keen to help the team play in Division One in both competitions," said Moody.

"To try to achieve that we have had to make necessary changes and to do that, you need players who really need and want to be playing First Division cricket in both forms."

Moody is also putting his faith in batsman Ben Smith, signed from Leicestershire and two other newcomers Steve Peters and Gareth Batty.

"We were aware at the end of the last season that we had a need in our squad for some extra depth with bat and ball," Moody added.

Smith is still hoping to cap his career with England recognition, even though he is now 30.

Well motivated

"He is obviously still hungry to represent his country, which is exactly the sort of motivation you want in your cricketers."

It is Bichel, however, who provides the international quality Worcestershire need - although it is bad news for Stuart Clark, who was heading for New Road until Australia's tour to Zimbabwe was cancelled.

Bichel did not let them down last season with 66 first-class wickets and 627 runs