Van Jaarsveld joins Foxes

Van Jaarsveld: Grace Road switch

Leicestershire have signed South African batsman Martin van Jaarsveld on a two-year contract.

Van Jaarsveld, 37, has spent the past seven seasons at Kent where he was a consistent run scorer in the middle order across all formats.

His deal with Friends Life t20 champions Leicestershire includes the option of a third year.

"I would like to thank everyone at Kent for the opportunity I have been given in county cricket over the last seven seasons," Van Jaarsveld told the Foxes' official website.

"It is time for a new challenge which I hope will reignite my passion for the game and allow me to recapture my best form."
Martin van Jaarsveld Quotes of the week

"I have poured everything I have had in to trying to score runs and win games for the county during this time, but now it is time for a new challenge which I hope will reignite my passion for the game and allow me to recapture my best form."

McDonald exit

Van Jaarsveld is tasked with filling the void at Grace Road created by the departure of Australian all-rounder Andrew McDonald.

"We are delighted to bring Martin van Jaarsveld to Grace Road," said Leicestershire chief executive Mike Siddall.

"Martin has been a prolific run scorer and excellent fielder for Kent during the seven seasons he played for them.

"With Andrew McDonald unable to return next season it was important that the club signed a senior batsman as we are unlikely to have an overseas player in the LV County Championship in 2012."