Jamie Dalrymple joins Glamorgan

Fresh start: Jamie Dalrymple has disappeared from the England scene and has now opted for a new challenge with Glamorgan © Getty Images

Jamie Dalrymple has signed a three-year deal with Glamorgan after turning down a new contract at Middlesex. He was a member of England's World Cup squad in West Indies, but suffered a disappointing 2007 season and is currently well off the international radar.

"Joining Glamorgan on a three-year deal is a very exciting opportunity, and I'm really looking forward to making a new start at a very ambitious club," said Dalrymple. "I was most impressed by the new stadium at Cardiff when I visited Glamorgan's headquarters recently, and I believe that their wonderful looking ground and fantastic new facilities are indicative of their forward-thinking philosophy."

But he admitted the decision to leave Lord's hadn't come easily. "I have had a wonderful time at Middlesex and have many friends there on and off the field," he said. "However, the time was right to seek a fresh challenge and a new opportunity. It has been one of the most difficult decisions of my life."

Matthew Maynard, Glamorgan's cricket manager, said: "It sends out a great message to everyone about the direction in which the club is heading. Jamie offers great strength and international experience to our squad, and I have no doubt whatsoever that he will be able to contribute to all departments in both our one-day and four-day teams."

"I thoroughly enjoyed working with Jamie when I was part of the England coaching set-up, especially during the World Cup in the Caribbean. Jamie has got a great attitude and he has the right character to fit into the Glamorgan dressing-room."

Dalrymple has a highest first-class score of 244, but last summer averaged 20 in the County Championship and took just 12 wickets in 12 matches. He is the most significant signing made by Glamorgan since Maynard took charge and is some compensation for the loss of Simon Jones who moved to Worcestershire.