Dan Lawrence: Surrey-bound batter holds fond memories of home county Essex

Dan Lawrence won the last of his 11 England Test caps in the West Indies in March 2022

England batter Dan Lawrence says he will hold nothing but fond memories of Essex as he prepares to join Surrey.

The 26-year-old makes the move to the Oval this winter after nine seasons playing for his home county.

Essex finished second to Surrey in the County Championship and also lost the T20 Blast Final to Somerset this year.

"We came really close and with a combination of weather and a little bit of bad luck, we couldn't quite get it over the line," Lawrence said.

Despite the disappointment, Lawrence predicts a bright future at Chelmsford.

"I think the club is in a great place if coming second in the two main tournaments is seen as a bit of a disappointment," he told BBC Essex.

"I am sure the club will continue to be successful and I look forward to seeing what they can produce.

"It's going to be great fun coming back to my home club and playing against the boys - it's going to be a very interesting experience and I'm not sure how it's going to be now."

Lawrence reiterated his desire to represent England in all formats and added: "I felt it was time for me to move onto a different chapter. It's an exciting challenge, I'm sad to be leaving but I felt like it was the right thing for me to do.

"I've had so much fun playing with my great mates. We have won a lot and come close to winning a lot. I'll hold nothing but fond memories of this great club."