Speaking for the first time on the move, the current New Zealand captain said former all-rounder Hadlee, who enjoyed a hugely successful spell with Notts in the 1980s, was thrilled the links between Notts and the Kiwis was being extended.

"On the day the news broke I was at a training camp in Christchurch with the rest of the New Zealand squad and Sir Richard happened to be floating around," said Fleming.

"He is clearly and rightly very proud of his time at Notts and his achievements for the club so made a point of seeking me out to tell me I'd made the right choice."

The capture of the 31-year-old, widely regarded as one of the shrewdest skippers in the game, represented a major coup for Director of Cricket Mick Newell.

It further extends a long and successful tradition between the club and the Black Caps - one that he is happy to be part of.

"With Sir Richard, Chris Cairns, Nathan Astle and Daniel Vettori all playing there, it's a club that is well respected and regarded highly in New Zealand cricketing circles.

"With all the improvements that have been carried out, it's now a great place to play.

"I got a Test hundred there this season and I've scored runs during my time with Middlesex. I love the feel of the ground."