Jaques was part of Yorkshire's promotion-winning team

The 26-year-old left-hander scored more than 1,350 runs for Yorkshire in the 2005 Championship campaign and has also had a spell with Northants.

"Phil is a prolific run scorer who has a career average of 55," said coach Steve Rhodes.

"To have such a heavy run scorer at the top of the order for the next two seasons will be a huge bonus to the Worcestershire squad."

Jaques, from New South Wales, has yet to play international cricket but is a regular member of the Australia A side and hit 114 in the final game of a one-day series against Pakistan A.

"There was quite a bit of interest in me from several counties, but once I spoke to Worcestershire I had absolutely no doubts where I wanted to play my cricket for the next two years," said Jaques, in an interview for the website of his management company, the Stellar Group.

"Worcestershire have the makings of an excellent side and we must set our sights very high, not just next season, but the season after as well.

"The challenge of helping the side reach its full potential and gain promotion to the top division is something that really excites me and was a major factor in my decision to sign."

The club have confirmed that the signing of Jaques means they will not be pursuing their interest in Justin Langer.

"We were looking to sign a batsman and a bowler and Justin was unable to give us a commitment at the present time," said Rhodes.