Batty heading back to Surrey

Gareth Batty has agreed to rejoin Surrey from Worcestershire, signing a three-year deal which starts next season.

The 31-year-old spin bowler, part of England’s one-day squad for the tour of the West Indies earlier this year, played at The Oval from 1998 to 2001 before moving to New Road.

Batty was a leading figure for Worcestershire, taking 318 wickets at 33.37 and pitched in with some handy performances with the bat - his 133 versus Northamptonshire being the pick of them.

England spinner Gareth Batty returns to Surrey, whom he played for from 1998 to 2001 before joining Worcestershire

He follows wicketkeeper Steve Davies who agreed to move in the same direction earlier this week.

Surrey cricket manager Chris Adams said: “Getting Gareth on board will certainly bring healthy competition for bowling places within the squad.

“Having several options within the spin department is integral to a successful team and I now feel confident that we have a lot of depth there now.”

Batty, who has also played in seven Tests for England after making his debut against Bangladesh in 2003, said: “It’s great to be back at Surrey. Playing at the Brit Oval will help my own game and I really hope that I can play a part in helping Surrey win some trophies again.

“I still have aspirations to get back playing Test cricket for England again and I feel the move to Surrey will help me do that.”