The highly-rated Trego has flattered to deceive since his debut in 2000.

But he showed glimpses of his promise in an innings of 140 against the West Indies A team at Taunton in July.

He comes in as a direct replacement for former skipper Matthew Fleming who retired at the end of the season.

"He is unproven and no-one waltzes into a place in the side but a change can be as good as a rest and hopefully we'll see the best of Trego," he added.

Somerset coach Kevin Shine wished his former charge the best of luck.

"Peter is a talented player but with the signings we're hoping to make he would have been struggling to get into the side.

"His career has been a bit stop start but maybe this is what he needs to release his undoubted potential."

Captaincy confirmed

Fulton has been confirmed as Kent's leader for both the one-day and four-day games next season, succeeding Fleming after captaining the side in the Championship this year.

He also expressed his pleasure at seeing his county team mate Martin Saggers in the England squad for the Hong Kong sixes but argued that the recognition was long overdue.

"If Martin Saggers had played against India at Headingley then England would have won the Test."

"He's been the best bowler in county cricket for the past three seasons and it's a travesty he hasn't been given a chance in the side."