Phillips joins an already strong Somerset seam bowling attack

Director of Cricket Brian Rose told the club's website the 32-year-old would be an excellent addition to the squad.

"When we learned he wanted to leave Northants for family reasons we acted quickly and I believe he will be a big asset," said Rose.

"Ben can open the bowling, but he is also good at operating in mid-innings and at the death."

Phillips has taken 176 first-class wickets at an average of 30 during his career and is also a useful batsman as he showed last week with an innings of 75 against Worcestershire, his highest score of the summer.

"I had some very enjoyable years at Northants, but my family never really settled there and I view moving to Somerset as a great new challenge.

"I hope I can make some runs as well as taking wickets for Somerset.

"The pitches here are known for being good to bat on, but having bowled on them, I believe that my height can help me and that you can get a response if you put in the effort," he said.

Phillips will join close friend Steffan Jones at the County Ground next summer following the Welshman's recent decision to re-join the club from Derbyshire.

Northants coach David Capel, meanwhile, paid tribute to Phillips, saying: "He has been a delight to work with and will be missed from the team."