WORCESTERSHIRE have confirmed that club stalwart Ben Cox has left the county to join Leicestershire on loan for the rest of 2023.

Cox will join Leicestershire for the final four games of the LV=Insurance County Championship season, before making the move permanent ahead of the 2024 campaign. 

It brings to an end a long and successful 22 years with Worcestershire where he has been playing since his school days.

"Leaving Worcestershire is a bittersweet moment for me," said Cox. "This Club has been my cricketing home for 22 years, and I am immensely grateful for the opportunities, experiences, successes and memories that I’ve had here at Worcestershire."

Since being plucked out of school and making his debut as a teenager in 2009, Cox has gone on to become a hugely popular figure both within the club and the supporters.

He will always be fondly remembered for his crucial involvement in the Vitality Blast triumph in 2018, showcasing his ability to perform under pressure, picking up player of the match awards in both the semi-final and final.

Worcester News: Ben Cox with the Vitality Blast trophy in 2018Ben Cox with the Vitality Blast trophy in 2018

But his game time has been restricted to white-ball cricket in the past couple of years and despite being offered a new white-ball contract by Worcestershire, part of his reason for leaving is to get back to playing all forms of the game. 

"I want to thank my teammates, the coaching staff, and the incredible Worcestershire supporters who have been my extended family for so long," he added.

"I’m excited for the new challenge ahead and in particular getting back to playing all three formats, but Worcestershire will always hold a special place in my heart."

Worcestershire’s Head Coach, Alan Richardson, who shared the field with Ben Cox at the start of his career, expressed his heartfelt appreciation for the departing cricketer.

Worcester News: Ben Cox back in the early days of his Worcestershire careerBen Cox back in the early days of his Worcestershire career

"Ben has been an integral part of Worcestershire cricket, and it’s been an absolute privilege to witness his growth and development over the years," he said.

"His work ethic and commitment have been an inspiration to all of us.

"I had the privilege of playing alongside him during the early days of his career, and it’s been remarkable to see him evolve into the outstanding cricketer he is today.

"Ben will always hold a special place in the hearts of Worcestershire supporters, and his legacy here will endure."