Godleman signs three-year deal with Essex

Billy Godleman has signed a three-year deal with Essex after turning down a new two-year contract with Middlesex.

Godleman, 20, was originally on loan to Essex by Middlesex but has now committed to his future at Chelmsford. "I am looking forward to my time with Essex. I am keen to get into the side and make some good contributions with the bat; I hope to contribute to winning some games of cricket in all formats," he said.

"I spent yesterday [Sunday] watching the game against Worcestershire at Colchester, the vibes in the dressing room are good, although it was obviously a disappointing ending. I know most of the players from my time with Middlesex and have been made to feel very welcome by everyone. One of my good friends in the game is Tom Westley, [so] it will be good to link up with him".

"We are sorry to lose a player in which we have invested much but the emergence of other young batsmen this year has pushed him down our pecking order," said Angus Fraser, Middlesex's managing director. "We wish him well with his future career, except in games against Middlesex."

Godleman played five Championship matches for Middlesex this season, but only managed 160 runs at 17.77 before being pushed aside by Sam Robson, the Australian-born opener.