Graham Wagg, unwanted by Warwickshire after testing positive for cocaine, yesterday signed for Derbyshire on a one-year contract.
The 22- year- old allrounder's ban, imposed by the England and Wales Cricket Board after he tested positive in September 2004, expires in January, leaving him free to play throughout next year.
Wagg, who represented England from under-16 to the A team's tour to Malaysia and India in 2003-04, said: "I am delighted to have signed for Derbyshire and [to have been] given the chance to get my career back on track. I made a big mistake and admitted it straight away.
"I have taken my punishment and used the time to think long and hard about what I want to do with my life and my cricket career. I am determined to make the most of my second chance and I am excited by the opportunity here at Derbyshire."
After his ban Warwickshire denied Wagg access to facilities at Edgbaston but last night the club's website forum suggested members would like to see him return one day.
Derbyshire chief executive Tom Sears added: " Throughout our discussions Graham has been very honest about the mistake he made, something he regrets a great deal, and he has a real hunger and determination to get his career back on track and fulfil his potential."
Warwickshire's cricket sub-committee, meanwhile, have appointed John Claughton as chairman. Former Warwickshire batsman and member of the 1980 John Player League-winning side, Claughton was headmaster of Solihull School from 2001 to 2005 and is set to take over as Chief Master at King Edward's School, Birmingham, in January.
Club chairman Neil Houghton said: "We are very pleased to have someone of John's capabilities taking on such an important role within the Club."
Claughton said: "It is obviously a great honour to be chosen for such a position. These are exciting times."
