 | THE PRODIGAL SON |
Released Sussex paceman Billy Taylor has signed a three-year contract with Hampshire. It is a homecoming for the 26-year-old, who played for the 2nd XI as a youngster but was not offered a contract by at Rose Bowl bosses.
Taylor took 21 wickets in Sussex's championship-winning season, but was linked to Hampshire after telling the club he wanted to move on.
He said: "I always wanted to play for Hampshire, it feels like coming home.
"This is a wonderful opportunity for myself.
"I was disapointed at not being offered a contract all those years ago, but hopefully I have proved my worth at Sussex.
"I am much fitter and able to bowl long spells with more pace, and I hit the seam much more so I like to take the new ball."
Hampshire director of cricket Tim Tremlett said he was delighted to welcome Taylor back to the Rose Bowl.
"He is former Hampshire Schools and Hampshire 2nd XI player, a wholehearted cricketer who has improved a lot during his time with Sussex," Tremlett said.
"He is a bowler who is always willing to learn and he is looking for a new challenge in the hope of playing regular first-team cricket.
"It is nice to get him back."
Hampshire, who finished second-bottom in Division Two of the championship this season, have also been linked with released Yorkshire left-arm paceman Ryan Sidebottom.
MMIX
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