Leicestershire have made a significant move in county cricket by confirming the double signing of Josh Davey and Jonny Tattersall on three-year contracts. The announcement marks a bold step forward as the club continues to prepare for a long-awaited return to Division One. Both players bring a wealth of experience and leadership that will blend well with the promising young talent already within the squad.
The two new arrivals will officially join on November 1, once their current contracts expire. Davey, who leaves Somerset after a long and successful spell, and Tattersall, departing Yorkshire, are set to make Grace Road their new home. Alongside them, it is also expected that Ben Green will move permanently to Leicestershire after two summers on loan, further boosting the side’s depth.
The acquisitions not only add experience but also reflect the club’s determination to challenge in all formats. With Division One cricket in sight for the first time since 2003, these signings underline the ambition and vision that Leicestershire are now determined to follow.
Josh Davey Brings International Pedigree
A Reliable Scottish Seamer
Josh Davey arrives at Leicestershire with a wealth of international and county experience. Having earned 62 caps for Scotland and featured in two T20 World Cups, he has proven his ability against some of the world’s best. His county career at Somerset has also been impressive, highlighted by consistent wicket-taking performances in all formats.
Impressive Career Numbers
Davey’s statistics underline his value as a top-level performer. With 214 first-class wickets at an average of 24.25, alongside 128 wickets at 25.90 in List A and 116 wickets at 21.77 in T20, he remains one of the most dependable seamers on the county circuit. In recent seasons, he has even added versatility by stepping up as an opening batter, showcasing his adaptability across formats.
Positive Experience at Grace Road
This is not Davey’s first taste of Grace Road. He previously enjoyed a brief loan spell at Leicestershire during the 2023 season, where he integrated well into the squad. Reflecting on his move, Davey emphasized that his positive experience and the welcoming environment convinced him to return permanently. He also mentioned the influence of fellow players like Ben Green, Lewis Goldsworthy, and Josh Thomas, who all spoke highly of their time at the club.
Davey on His Ambitions
Building a Competitive Squad
In his first words as a Leicestershire player, Davey shared his excitement about the club’s future. He praised the vision of Alfonso Thomas and Claude Henderson, who have been central to shaping the team’s new direction. For Davey, joining an ambitious squad full of talent and energy was a decisive factor.
Aiming for Division One Success
Davey is clear about his goals: he wants to help Leicestershire secure Division One status and compete strongly across all formats. He believes that with the right blend of youth and experience, the squad has the potential to win trophies and establish itself as a consistent force in English county cricket. His 15 years of professional cricket provide the foundation for him to act as both a player and a mentor.
Inspired by the Environment
His comments also highlight the importance of a positive dressing-room culture. Davey spoke warmly about the atmosphere during his loan stint, describing it as one of the main reasons behind his decision. He views the next three years as an opportunity to not only perform individually but also to guide the younger generation of Leicestershire players toward sustained success.
Jonny Tattersall Joins the Journey
A Proven Keeper-Batter
Alongside Davey, the arrival of Jonny Tattersall adds stability and leadership to the batting department. A keeper-batter with over a decade of experience at Yorkshire, Tattersall made his debut in 2013 and has since played 155 matches for the county. His skill behind the stumps and ability to score consistently make him an ideal replacement for Harry Swindells, who was forced into retirement through injury.
Consistency Across Formats
Tattersall enjoyed an impressive 2024 season, averaging 40.18 with the bat while also recording 29 dismissals as wicketkeeper. His season included two centuries, one of which came at Grace Road in September against his new club, a match that helped Yorkshire secure a crucial innings victory in their push for promotion. That performance, ironically against Leicestershire, gave local fans a glimpse of his ability to change the course of a game.
Leadership Experience
Tattersall’s time at Yorkshire was also defined by his leadership qualities. He captained the team in Shan Masood’s absence, guiding them to a return to Division One. His leadership both on and off the field will be vital for Leicestershire, especially in supporting the younger members of the squad as they prepare for the challenges of top-flight cricket.
Tattersall on His Move
Excited for the Challenge
In his first statement, Tattersall described Leicestershire as a club with a rich history and a bright future. He expressed excitement about joining a team with a clear purpose and ambition, stating that he wanted to play a key role in their journey. For him, the decision to move was motivated by the opportunity to contribute to a squad hungry for success.
Guiding the Young Talent
Tattersall is eager to use his experience of first division cricket to guide Leicestershire’s younger players. He believes that by sharing knowledge and offering leadership, he can help the squad develop quickly. At the same time, he is determined to continue improving his own game, aiming to raise his performance to new levels over the next three years.
Focused on Winning Trophies
His message to supporters was clear: he is committed to giving his all for the club. Tattersall emphasized his determination to produce match-winning performances and help Leicestershire challenge for trophies. For him, success will not only be measured by individual achievements but also by the team’s ability to bring silverware back to Grace Road.
Director of Cricket Praises the Signings
Confidence in Davey’s Abilities
Leicestershire’s director of cricket, Claude Henderson, was full of praise for the two new additions. Speaking about Davey, he described him as a “high-calibre operator” who will contribute significantly in both red-ball and white-ball formats. Henderson highlighted his leadership qualities and Division One experience, believing that his presence in the dressing room will strengthen the entire squad.
Recognition of Tattersall’s Leadership
On Tattersall, Henderson pointed to his strong character, leadership skills, and proven record as a wicketkeeper-batter. He emphasized the depth and stability that Tattersall will bring to the batting order, as well as his ability to mentor younger players. Henderson made it clear that these signings are not just about immediate impact but about building a sustainable foundation for future success.
A Statement of Intent
For Henderson, these acquisitions represent a statement of intent. By securing players of this calibre, Leicestershire are sending a message that they are serious about competing at the top level once again. With Davey and Tattersall on board, the club’s ambitions for Division One and beyond look increasingly realistic.
Looking Ahead for Leicestershire
Building for Division One Return
The double signing of Davey and Tattersall has created a sense of momentum at Grace Road. With Division One cricket within reach for the first time in over two decades, the squad now looks better balanced than ever. Both players bring the perfect mix of experience, skill, and leadership to complement Leicestershire’s emerging young stars.
Excitement Among Supporters
Fans will be eager to see how these new arrivals settle into the side when the season begins. Davey’s proven ability with the ball and Tattersall’s consistency with both bat and gloves add significant strength to the team’s core. Supporters will also be encouraged by the players’ clear commitment to helping Leicestershire achieve success.
Ambition to Compete in All Formats
Looking ahead, Leicestershire’s goal is not only promotion but also sustained competitiveness across all three formats. The club’s long-term vision is clear: build a side capable of winning trophies and restoring its reputation as one of the most respected county teams. With the addition of Davey and Tattersall, that dream is now much closer to reality.
FAQs
Who are the new Leicestershire signings?
Leicestershire have confirmed the signings of Josh Davey from Somerset and Jonny Tattersall from Yorkshire. Both players bring valuable experience to strengthen the squad for upcoming challenges.
When will Davey and Tattersall officially join?
The duo will officially join Leicestershire on November 1, following the expiry of their existing contracts. This timing allows them to integrate fully before the new season.
Why did Leicestershire sign these players?
The signings aim to add experience, skill, and leadership to a young squad. Their presence is expected to help the club push for Division One promotion.
What role will Jonny Tattersall play?
Tattersall is a wicketkeeper-batter who will replace the retired Harry Swindells. He will also mentor younger players, guiding them with his first-division experience.
How will Josh Davey contribute to the team?
Davey brings international and county experience as a seamer and occasional opening batter. His all-round abilities strengthen Leicestershire across all cricket formats.
Conclusion
Leicestershire’s double signing of Josh Davey and Jonny Tattersall signals ambition and intent. Both players bring extensive experience, leadership, and versatility to Grace Road, complementing a talented young squad. With the team aiming for Division One promotion, these additions enhance competitiveness across formats and provide mentoring for emerging talent. Fans can expect exciting seasons ahead as Leicestershire push for success, building a squad capable of winning trophies and establishing long-term stability.
