Leicestershire, from whom a number of players have moved during the winter months, have today announced a new signing.

After saying goodbye to the likes of James Ormond (Surrey), Ben Smith (Worcestershire), Jon Dakin (Essex) and Aftab Habib, the county have secured the services of former Gloucestershire batsman Robert Cunliffe on a two-year contract.

Cunliffe made his debut for Gloucestershire in one-day cricket in 1993 at the age of 19, and played first-class cricket the following season. He made his Minor Counties debut for Oxfordshire as early as 1991. But despite the early start to his career he has only played in 62 first-class matches, averaging a fraction under 25, and 80 one-day matches, where his average is very nearly 28.

Announcing the signing of the former Young England batsman, Leicestershire general manager James Whitaker said: "We are delighted to have signed Robert. He has considerable experience of first-team cricket, and he will make an exciting addition to our squad."

© CricInfo