In 2016, Ball took five wickets on his 50-over debut against Bangladesh in Dhaka, becoming the first England bowler to do so.

During his 15 years with Nottinghamshire, he took 423 wickets in all formats.

Due to back injuries, Ball bowled primarily in the T20 Blast for Notts, who lost to eventual winners Somerset in the quarterfinals.

The Somerset club website quoted Ball as saying, “I’m looking forward to this new challenge.”.

The ambition of the Somerset lads was one of the things that really attracted me to the club.

I truly believe that this group of players has what it takes to challenge for the Championship and build on this season’s Vitality Blast success.”

It was in a T20 international against India in Bristol that Ball made his last of 24 England appearances.

The Somerset side has lost veteran paceman Jack Brooks at the end of the season, while a number of seamers are injured.

The knowledge and experience he will bring to the dressing room will greatly benefit our aspirational bowlers and their development,” Somerset director of cricket Andy Hurry said.

“His desire to win cricket matches was evident during our discussion, and it was clear that he still has a strong fire burning inside him to achieve as much as he can.

A quality performer, he will ensure we have the depth to remain competitive across all formats during a challenging season.”