Godleman secures Derbyshire deal

Derbyshire have signed Billy Godleman, the former Essex and Middlesex batsman, on a two-year contract.

Godleman, 23, was released by Essex towards the end of the 2012 season having failed to secure a regular place in the first XI. He made his first-class debut for Middlesex as a 16-year-old - the second youngest man to make his first-class debut for the club - and represented England at every level from Under-15s to Under-19s.

Having joined Essex for the 2010 season, he averaged in the mid-20s in 2010 and 2011 and despite scoring a century in Essex' opening Division Two game in 2012 he lost his first-team place in the latter half of the summer and was told his contract would not be renewed.

"My first-class career began very early with a century on debut at 17, but it has not progressed as I would have liked during the past couple of seasons," Godleman said. "However, I believe this opportunity with one of the most ambitious and progressive clubs in the game will provide the platform to re-establish my early credentials as a prospective England player.

"If I can develop my game in all formats within Derbyshire's committed learning environment, I believe my runs at the top of the order can provide the foundation to build more success for the team next season."

Derbyshire's head coach, Karl Krikken, added: "Billy is a talented batsman who, at 23, has a great chance to develop at the club and fulfil his potential.

"He already has experience under his belt, yet he remains ambitious, his game is still developing, he is hungry for success and he still has plenty to prove; factors that combine to make Billy an exciting signing."