Buttler signs for Lancashire

Lancashire have confirmed the signing of England one-day wicketkeeper Jos Buttler.

The 23-year-old, who has played 19 one-day internationals and 25 Twenty20 internationals for his country, was widely expected to move to Old Trafford after deciding not to renew his contract with Somerset.

Taunton-born Buttler opted to leave his local side in a bid to further his career as a wicketkeeper after competing with team-mate Craig Kieswetter for a regular spot behind the stumps at Somerset.

Although Buttler is ahead of the South African-born 25-year-old in England's pecking order, he has been largely used solely as a batsman for the west country side this season.

The big-hitting batsman is likely to be the first-choice at Lancashire after it was announced Gareth Cross would not be offered a new deal with the LV= County Championship Division Two champions.

Buttler said: "I am delighted to be joining Lancashire County Cricket Club. They have a strong squad and are very ambitious to build on this season's achievement.

"The club has an exceptional coaching staff which will help me to continue to develop as a keeper-batsman.

"Lancashire have a talented group of players who will be looking to challenge for all three competitions. They have been there or thereabouts in recent seasons in the T20 competition and I know for certain that Lancashire Lightning will want to make a mark in the NatWest T20 next year."

Lancashire's cricket director Mike Watkinson added: "We are delighted to bring Jos to Emirates Old Trafford. He is a regular England International and has demonstrated that he is growing as a cricketer. His talent and ability match our ambitions going forward."