Ward joins Sussex

Ward left Surrey after being offered a reduced contract

County champions Sussex have signed former England batsman Ian Ward to a four-year contract.

Celebrating his 30th birthday on Tuesday, Ward won five Test caps against Pakistan and Australia in 2001.

He left Surrey after being offered a reduced contract for 2004.

"Ian is a proven performer who will bring not only his talent as a batsman but also the wealth of knowledge and experience from his years at Surrey," said Sussex boss Peter Moores.

"He is still hungry to improve and regain his place in the England team and to help Sussex use the successes of this season as a launching pad for the future."

I chose Sussex because of their vibrancy Ian Ward

Since making his first-class debut at The Oval in 1992, Ward has scored 6923 runs at an average of 40.01, with 17 centuries.

He was a member of the Surrey side which won the Championship in 1999, 2000 and 2002 and this season helped the Lions win the Twenty20 Cup and National League.

Sussex have beaten off opposition from several sides, including Hampshire and Somerset - who offered the captaincy as bait - to secure his signature.

"I felt a bit stale at Surrey and needed a new challenge," said Ward.

"I was flattered by the offers I received from other counties.

"But I chose Sussex because of their vibrancy, the way they are going and the way they are run and led."