HIGHLY-RATED batsman Tom Kohler-Cadmore has joined Yorkshire after his shock release by Worcestershire.

The 22-year-old told the County last week of his plans to quit New Road to sign for the White Rose county next term.

But Kohler-Cadmore has left Worcestershire and penned a three-year deal at Headingley.

The former Malvern College pupil was dropped by Worcestershire for their Specsavers County Championship Division Two defeat against Sussex at Hove.

The news of the batsman's departure has been announced on the eve of Worcestershire's Championship match with Glamorgan at New Road tomorrow (11am).

Worcestershire chief executive Tom Scott said: “Worcestershire County Cricket Club have mutually agreed with Tom Kohler-Cadmore and his representative of the immediate release from his contract with the club.

“We would like to thank Tom for the contribution he has made at New Road and wish him continued success in the future.”

Hard-hitting Kohler-Cadmore was out of contract at the end of the campaign and Worcestershire are believed to have offered him a new deal.

He scored 1,763 runs in 37 first-class matches for Worcestershire at an average of 31.48.

His List A average is 27.23 from 31 games.

Kohler-Cadmore batted 38 times in Twenty20 matches for the County, hitting 915 runs at 25.41 with a strike-rate of 138.63.

The news of Kohler-Cadmore’s intention to leave Worcestershire would have been a major blow for the County’s Yorkshire-born director of cricket Steve Rhodes.

The batsman's father, Mick Cadmore, is also the County’s dressing room attendant. It is not known whether he is remaining at the club.

Kohler-Cadmore has been in good form in the Royal London One-Day Cup as Worcestershire reached their first semi-final in 13 and will host Yorkshire or Surrey on June 17.

In May, he struck 118 against Yorkshire as Worcestershire sealed a 59-run win in a high-scoring match at New Road.

Kohler-Cadmore hit the fastest century of last season off 43 balls against Durham Jets.

Kohler-Cadmore said: “I’d like to thank the coaches and support staff, players and the loyal fans for their support over my time at the club.”

The batsman played alongside two current Yorkshire stars, Jack Leaning and Ben Coad, for the Tykes’ under 15s and his family still live in the east of the county.

“Obviously it was a massive decision to move home and I find it incredibly exciting,” said Kohler-Cadmore.

“Yorkshire was my childhood county, I played in the under 13s, 14s and 15s and I can’t wait to join what I see as the best club in the country.

“I’m really looking forward to getting stuck in and part of my decision to move was to challenge and test myself in what is a great environment and a very strong squad.

“Hopefully this will help me improve and to push me on to higher levels.

“This is a great team, packed with International standard players and it’s a great opportunity to learn and improve my cricket.

“I remember how professional the club is and the pride that all the players have in wearing the White Rose.

“I’m thoroughly looking forward to pulling the shirt on, turning in some good performances and contributing where possible to some success for the club.”