Nottinghamshire have completed the signing of batsman James Taylor on a three year contract.

Leicestershire will receive a compensation payment from Nottinghamshire having allowed Taylor to enter negotiations despite him having a year to run on his contract.

“I am delighted that James has decided to sign for Nottinghamshire and I would like to thank Leicestershire for conducting the negotiations in a professional and amicable manner,” said Nottinghamshire Chief Executive Derek Brewer.

Taylor arrives having already made his One Day International debut for England against Ireland in August and boasts a first class batting average of 49.82. He spent four seasons with Leicestershire having previously represented Shropshire in minor counties cricket and Worcestershire’s Second Eleven.

“James is already on England’s radar and we hope that he can play a part for us on his way to realising his international ambitions,” said Nottinghamshire Director of Cricket Mick Newell.

“This is a significant signing for us and we hope that he can make an impact in all competitions.

“There was a lot of interest from counties for James’s signature and we are very pleased that he has chosen to commit to Nottinghamshire.”

Taylor leaves Grace Road with fond memories and is relishing the challenge of top division LV= County Championship cricket.

“I’m thankful to Leicestershire for allowing me to speak to other counties as I feel that I will benefit from playing against the best teams in four-day cricket,” said Taylor.

“Nottinghamshire have a talented squad that can challenge on all fronts and I am pleased to be part of that.

"I will always be grateful to Leicestershire for the part they have played in my development but it is time to move on and I am looking forward to the new season."

Taylor will add further steel to a batting line-up improved by the signing of Michael Lumb whilst Newell remains in pursuit of an overseas batsman.  

“We lost Mark Wagh and Ali Brown last season but James and Michael are fitting replacements and they were our primary targets,” said Newell.

“The international calendar may also present us with an opportunity to recruit an overseas batsman and we’re exploring that to see if we can do a deal with the right player.”