Durham sign batsman Lees from Yorkshire

Alex Lees, who has made 4,835 first-class runs for the White Rose since making his debut in 2010, will initially move to the Riverside on loan before switching permanently on a three-year contract

^{Durham have signed Alex Lees}

Alex Lees is to leave Yorkshire and join Durham.

The batsman, who has made 4,835 first-class runs for the White Rose since making his debut in 2010, will initially move to the Riverside on loan before switching permanently on a three-year contract.

"I think naturally there’s a bit of disappointment. I’ve probably been an important part of the team for the past five years or so and to now be leaving makes it bittersweet. I am looking forward to playing up at Durham now and playing more cricket," Lees told Yorkshire's official website.

"Under Jason Gillespie I probably flourished, but the last 16 months I just haven’t been as fluent as I’d have hoped to be. It has been quite difficult and I haven’t played much cricket, which I’ve found quite tough with my rhythm and fluidity, but I think a new challenge, a new set of players, new check-points and targets is something I’m looking forward to.

"I know I can replicate that form and being just 25 makes me believe my best cricketing years are still ahead of me.

"I’m very much looking forward to getting playing again at Durham. It’s a good club with some great lads and I think it has been obvious the last couple of years haven’t gone as well as I’d have liked. The prospect of moving on is really exciting."

Durham head coach Jon Lewis said: "We’re delighted that Alex has signed for the club and believe that his experience and skillset will make him a perfect fit at Emirates Riverside.

"When an English batsman of his age and ability becomes available, it’s a no brainer and we’re pleased that he has chosen Durham as we were aware that other counties were looking at him.

"Adding him into our squad gives us great options across both red-ball and white-ball and we are looking forward to seeing him continue to develop during the coming years at Durham and put himself back in contention for an England spot."