The former England opening bowler, who had previously worked part-time with the county for the past two years, has signed a three-year contract.

Northamptonshire have assured John Blain, their Scottish fast bowler, that his future is safe in spite of the fact the county have signed up two Test strike bowlers in England's Devon Malcolm and Australia's Paul Reiffel.

Referring to Blain, who has just returned from leading Scotland in the World Under-19 Cup, Steve Coverdale, the county's chief executive, said: ``He represents the long-term future of Northamptonshire and I've told him he'll still be bowling for us long after they've gone.''

Nottinghamshire have announced plans to stage a floodlit match at Trent Bridge for the first time this summer. The final game of their AXA Life League programme will be a day-night encounter with Lancashire on Sept 9.