Former Worcestershire paceman Kabir Ali joins Hampshire

Kabir originally agreed terms with Hampshire in October

Hampshire have completed the signing of Worcestershire fast bowler Kabir Ali, but declined to reveal whether they had paid his former club compensation.

The 29-year-old, who was released from his contract at New Road on Thursday, has signed a three-year deal .

"The move has been on my mind for a while. Now I am here, I am excited," Kabir told BBC Radio Solent.

"I've always liked the atmosphere and energy around The Rose Bowl, so I'm really pleased to be here."

Kabir, who had one year left to run on his deal at New Road, rejected a new contract at Worcestershire last summer and was given permission to talk to other counties.

He agreed terms with Hampshire, but Worcestershire refused to let him move without receiving £60,000 in compensation, equivalent to Kabir's annual salary.

Subsequently Kabir refused to attend pre-season training with Vikram Solanki's side and, following a meeting of the Worcestershire board on Monday, was allowed to leave.

But a Hampshire spokesman, pressed on the issue of compensation, declined to comment on Friday.

Kabir added: "I definitely thought I would be [at Hampshire] for this year. We've come to a decision and I'm looking forward to getting on with it.

"I didn't want to go in for pre-season [at Worcester]. I'm not sure what took place.

"It was obviously a little bit difficult leaving Worcestershire because I'd been there for 10 years, but now that I've moved to Hampshire I'm looking forward to the future.

"I believe they are the next Manchester United of cricket."

Kabir will link up with fellow paceman Simon Jones, who moved to Hampshire after being released by Worcestershire at the end of last season.