Phillips switches Somerset for Notts

Ben Phillips picked up 29 championship wickets in 11 appearances as Somerset pushed Notts all the way for the title

Veteran seamer Ben Phillips has joined LV= County Champions Nottinghamshire from Division One rivals Somerset on a two-year contract.

The 36-year-old took 29 championship wickets in 11 appearances this year as Somerset pushed Notts all the way for the title.

Phillips has also played for Kent and Northamptonshire in a first-class career that has already spanned 15 seasons.

His prospects at Somerset had diminished with the arrival of Gemaal Hussain and Notts were looking to replace the experience of Ryan Sidebottom, who has rejoined Yorkshire.

Notts director of cricket Mick Newell said: “Ben has a solid reputation in county cricket and he can play a big part for us next season.

“It was very important that we recruited a bowler who can come into the side and bowl long spells witch accuracy and control and Ben is capable of doing that.”

Phillips is well acquainted with several of his new team-mates, having played alongside Graeme Swann and Graeme White at Northants and spent time with David Hussey, Darren Pattinson and Paul Franks in Melbourne last winter.

“Mick didn’t have to sell the club to me at all because I’m well aware that there are a lot of quality players here and that conditions at Trent Bridge will help my bowling,” said Phillips.

“I wasn’t actively looking for a move but it was made clear that my opportunities might be limited given the signings that Somerset had made and I jumped at the chance to join Nottinghamshire.

“I’m delighted to be joining a team that will be in the hunt for trophies and I see this move as a perfect opportunity for me.”