Matthew Hoggard, the former England seam bowler, is to join Leicestershire next season as their new captain. Hoggard, 32, who had been released after 15 years at Yorkshire, has signed a three-year contract, with the option of staying for a fourth season in 2013.

Several counties had expressed an interest in Hoggard, but the offer of the captaincy at Grace Road led the player to choose Leicestershire ahead of Sussex. He was also keen to work with Tim Boon, Leicestershire’s senior coach, who was part of England’s backroom staff during the 2005 Ashes series. He becomes the county’s fourth signing for next season, along with Andrew McDonald, the Australia all-rounder, James Benning and Will Jefferson.

“This will provide the new challenge I want,” Hoggard said. “I’m genuinely excited about the prospect of joining Leicestershire and taking charge of a young and talented squad.” Hoggard is about to begin a spell commentating on England’s winter series for South African television.