Taylor links up with Somerset

Want to know which players have gone where? Click here for all the comings and goings on the domestic scene

Somerset have appointed former Gloucestershire batsman Chris Taylor as their specialist fielding coach.

The 35-year-old makes the move to Taunton after his release from Gloucestershire, with whom he had initially signed a conditional contract for 2012.

After their ground development planning permission was refused by Bristol Council, he came to a mutual agreement to leave the club he represented for 12 years.

Somerset director of cricket Brian Rose said: “I am delighted that Chris has joined us as a specialist fielding coach.

Former Gloucestershire batsman Chris Taylor is "hugely excited" after becoming Somerset's specialist fielding coach

“Fielding has become extraordinarily important in all forms of cricket and it can be the make or break of any game so to have Chris, who has had many years of first-class experience and become a specialist in what he is doing, joining us is highly exciting.”

Taylor, who was Gloucestershire’s fielding coach and holds the same position with England Lions, said: “Over the past few years fielding has been highlighted and people are talking about just how important it is.

“I think that is a hugely positive statement that Somerset have made, not only recognising that it is important, but to do something about it and appoint a specialist coach. I am thoroughly enjoying my time here at the County Ground.

“There is an impressive set-up at Somerset and I am delighted to be part of it. Obviously I have seen things from the other side of the fence over the last few seasons and the County Ground has been an intimidating place to come and play against a team that has dominated cricket over the last three or four years.

“I am hugely excited about being involved with Somerset.”

Click here for all the latest news from the domestic cricket scene, including exclusive interviews, team news, match reports and photo galleries