Stephen Peters signs for Northants

Northamptonshire have signing batsman Stephen Peters on a two-year contract after he was given permission to talk to other counties by Worcestershire. He is the second signing of the week for Northants following the recruitment of Lance Klusener.

Peters made his debut at Essex in 1996 before moving to Worcestershire in 2002. He enjoyed his best summers in 2003 and 2004, but he lost his place in the side after a poor start to last season.

"I know it is a cliché but at this stage in my career I need a fresh challenge," Peters told the Northants website. "I am looking forward in particular to learning from Kepler [Wessels] and further developing my technique as an opening bat. I believe that I have plenty to offer the club and its supporters."

Peters will need to meet certain fitness standards by the start of next season before he can complete the move. He acted as a substitute fielder for England during the third Ashes Test at Old Trafford in August.