Hampshire Cricket have completed the signing of Sussex batsman Joe Gatting on a two-year contract.

The 26-year old joins Hampshire from their local rivals after spending five seasons at Sussex.

Gatting made an immediate impact during his time at Hove, hitting 152 on his first class debut in 2009.

He then went on to make 145 appearances for the club after becoming a regular figure in their one day side.

Gatting said: “I am delighted to be joining such a fantastic club.

"As soon as I heard Hampshire where interested in me it became clear that's where I wanted to play my cricket.

"I've heard and seen nothing but good things. I can't wait for the new chapter and fresh start at Hampshire and I can't wait to get started.”

Hampshire Director of Cricket, Giles White said: "We expect to see less and less of Michael Carberry due to international commitments so Joe comes in to add depth to our batting. "He has shown he is a talented batsman and an athletic fielder and we expect him to be a good addition to the squad as well; we hope he makes strides in fulfilling his potential over the next couple of years. "

Gatting - son of ex Brighton footballer Steve and nephew of ex-England cricket captain Mike - is the second middle-order batsman Hampshire have signed since the end of the season after Will Smith put pen-to-paper at The Ageas Bowl in October.