Former England seamer Paul Taylor has joined Banbury as player-coach.

The 37-year-old left-armer, who retired from the first-class game after being released by Northants at the end of last season, has signed a three-year contract with the Home Counties Premier Division side.

He replaces another ex-England star -- Neal Radford, who left Banbury in September after six successful seasons.

Taylor played two Tests for England -- against India in Calcutta in 1993 and the following year against New Zealand at Lord's.

He joined Northants from Staffordshire in 1991, having started his career with Derbyshire in 1984. Taylor finished his career with 559 first-class wickets at 29.72.

Other applicants for the Banbury post included West Indian Vasbert Drakes, the former Sussex and Warwickshire paceman, and ex-England spinner Richard Illingworth.

Taylor said: "Starting a new career after leaving the first-class game was a major decision for me. I am delighted to be joining a successful club which still has enormous potential and ambition. My desire to play is still very strong."

Club chairman Martin Phillips said: "Paul is a high quality player, who will provide us with important continuity after Neal Radford's retirement."

Taylor will not be the only new face at Banbury next season.

Outstanding teenage wicket-keeper Danny Harding joins from Great Tew, while young all-rounder Ian Tew moves from Sandford St Martin.

The bowling will be strengthened by the return of Jason de la Pena, the former Worcestershire, Gloucestershire and Kent seamer. De la Pena missed the whole of last season with tennis elbow.

Craig Haupt is the new first-team skipper, taking over from Neil Megson, who has been made cricket manager. Megson is likely to keep wicket for the second team.

Banbury are also making progress off the field, with provisional planning permission having been granted for a second pitch behind the pavilion.