Monday 28 September 2015 15:34, UK
Essex batsman Mark Pettini is to leave the county and join Leicestershire on a three-year deal.
Pettini has spent 14 years at Essex, making his debut in 2001, and captained the side to the Friends Provident Trophy at Lord's in 2008 and promotion to the County Championship Division One in 2009.
He resigned the captaincy the following year in a bid to rediscover his batting form and enjoyed a strong end to the season this summer, making 134 against Surrey and averaging 100.50 from five Championship matches. He also has 2,926 Twenty20 runs at a strike-rate of 128.89.
"It was an incredibly hard decision to leave Essex, the place I have played my cricket since the age of 16," said the 32-year-old.
"I have nothing but happy memories of my time at the club. I would like to thank everyone, including the members, supporters, players, coaches and staff, for the support they have given me over the years. In particular, I would like to thank Graham Gooch, Ronnie Irani and Paul Grayson.
"At this stage in my career the offer from Leicestershire of a three-year contract and particularly the chance to play regularly across all three formats was something I couldn't turn down as playing red-ball cricket is something I still have a very strong desire to do.
"I've been deliberating over this decision for a number of weeks, and only informed the club on Friday of the move. It was very emotional, particularly when I told the players who I've shared the dressing room with over the years. Leading the side out on Friday morning was a special moment.
"My proudest moment was the win at Lord's in 2008, and it is something I will never forget."
Essex chairman of cricket Ronnie Irani said: "Everyone at the club would like to thank Mark for the service he has given over the years. He has been an excellent player for the club, with a fabulous attitude and was a successful captain when taking over from myself in 2007. We wish him all the best."
