James Ormond, one of England's perspiring bowlers at Mohali, has joined Surrey on a three-year contract. Ormond, 24, who made his Test debut at The Oval in August last year, has ended a seven-year association with Leicestershire, after taking 225 wickets at 25.67 in first-class cricket, and 101 wickets at 22.57 in limited-overs matches. Surrey were county champions two years ago, but suffered an extremely disappointing season in 2001. They were relegated from the first division of the National League, and looked on helplessly in the Championship as Yorkshire waltzed to a first title in 33 years.

Nevertheless, Ormond's signing takes the number of international players on Surrey's books to 15. Chief Executive Paul Sheldon described the signing as "tremendous", and added: "This will give us the strength in depth to challenge for all four major competitions next season."

Ormond, who took 1 for 70 in England's ten-wicket defeat at Mohali, said: "I am extremely excited about signing for such an ambitious club.

"To be playing in a side with so many talented and experienced players I hope that I can improve my game as well as help Surrey to win more silverware in the future."

In spite of his England recognition, Ormond cannot be guaranteed a place in Surrey's 1st XI. Martin Bicknell and Alex Tudor are the established new-ball pairing, and with the likes of Ed Giddins, Ben Hollioake, Ian Salisbury and Saqlain Mushtaq all vying for a spot, his chances may be limited.

© Wisden CricInfo Ltd