Warwickshire sign Rankin

Boyd Rankin © Getty Images

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Ireland fast bowler Boyd Rankin has signed a two-year deal with Warwickshire after turning down a new contract with Derbyshire.

The 23-year-old made his mark at the World Cup but struggled for fitness during the 2007 season and appeared in just three LV County Championship matches. Derbyshire had offered him a new deal but withdrew the contract after he delayed his decision.

Rankin believes the move comes at the right time of his career and the chance to work with Ashley Giles and Allan Donald was too good to miss.

"Derbyshire made me a very good offer, and it was a difficult decision to leave, as they have been very good to me,” he said.

“Having examined my options, my agent informed them I wouldn't be resigning before their deadline passed. I'd like to go on record to thank Mike Hendrick who has been instrumental in my career development."

"However once the opportunity arose with Warwickshire, and the chance to work with their bowling coach Allan Donald, it was something I had to go for.

“I'm looking forward to the next few years, both domestically and internationally. I've a contract to play in the Indian League along with Niall O' Brien, and it looks like I'll be in Bangladesh with Ireland in March."