Ian Ward signs for Sussex

Ian Ward has joined the new County Champions, Sussex, on a four-year contract, after opting to move on from Surrey at the end of last season. Ward, who celebrates his 30th birthday today, played for England against Pakistan and Australia in 2001, and has since expressed a desire to add to his five Test caps.

Ward chose to leave Surrey, whom he joined for one season in 1992 before earning a second opportunity four years later, because they couldn't afford to offer him a well-deserved pay-rise. He was a pivotal member of the side that won both the National League and, especially, the inaugural Twenty20 Cup.

With a helmet-cam strapped to his head, Ward scored 99 runs in Surrey's two matches on the Twenty20 finals day at Trent Bridge, including 50 from 28 balls in the final itself. Over the course of the year, he has developed into an impressive anchorman for the Sky Sports commentary team, but today's news shows he is not ready to move upstairs on a permanent basis just yet.

He had been linked with a move to Somerset, who were tempting him with the prospect of the captaincy. But Ward eventually opted for Sussex, a team that is made up of few big names, but one that shares Surrey's work ethic and desire for self-improvement. Peter Moores, the Sussex coach, was understandably delighted with the decision.

"This is fantastic news and will be a great boost to all at the Club," said Moores. "Ian is a proven performer who will bring not only his talent as a batsman, but also the wealth of knowledge and experience from his years at Surrey. He is still hungry to improve and regain his place in the England team and to help Sussex use the successes of this season as a launching pad for the future."