New Gloucestershire signing Batty: I jumped at the chance to work with Jack Russell
The 35-year-old wicketkeeper-batsman has completed his move from Surrey to the County Ground, signing a three-year contract.
And he revealed the presence on the Nevil Road staff of Gloucestershire great and former England gloveman Russell proved a clinching factor in his decision to leave The Oval and move west.
"Jack Russell has always been one of my heroes and he is someone I admire tremendously," said Batty.
"He is one of the best wicketkeepers I have ever seen and the chance to work with him was an extremely attractive proposition. Of course, I'm disappointed to be leaving Surrey after 13 years, but the negatives are far outweighed by the positives.
"Even though I'm in my mid-thirties, I still feel there is room for improvement in my game and there are a lot of things I still want to achieve.
"I've played against Jack and he is someone I know well and respect. Now I'm looking forward to the prospect of working with him in a coaching environment for the first time."
The writing was on the wall for Batty when Surrey signed promising wicketkeeper-batsman Steven Davies towards the end of last season and he admitted: "It looked as though it was going to be impossible for me to sustain my career at The Oval.
"I'm nowhere near hanging my boots up and I was prepared to go anywhere to keep playing. When Gloucestershire came in for me and I spoke to John Bracewell (director of cricket) and the captain, Alex Gidman, I realised they ticked a lot of boxes.
"I like a lot of their ideas and agree with the way they want to play. Gloucestershire are an ambitious club, they are desperate to win promotion to the first division of the Championship and I want to be a part of that."
He added: "I have always admired the way Gloucestershire have gone about playing the game, especially in one-day cricket under John Bracewell. We had many close tussles with them when I was playing for Surrey.
"I've been used to a winning dressing room at The Oval and I know Gloucestershire share that philosophy."
Batty is determined to continue keeping wicket and opening the batting, a role he filled for Surrey.
"It's a physically demanding role, but it's one I enjoy and want to carry on doing," said Batty, who boasts 20 first-class hundreds and more than 8,000 career runs.
"I've always preferred opening and find it easier than batting down the order. It can be tough when you have been behind the stumps all day, but it means I'm mentally switched on."
Comment on this story