GRANGE are celebrating a massive signing coup after snapping-up Preston Mommsen from capital rivals Carlton.

The Scotland captain is making the cross-city switch in time to help the national champions defend their Eastern Premier crown.

John Blain, Grange’s director of cricket, declared: “Preston will add further experience, knowledge and huge quality to the club.

“He is one of the leading batsmen in the country and is obviously going to be a major asset on the field of play.”

However, Mommsen has also been earmarked for a key coaching role as ambitious Grange aim for a period of domestic dominance.

Blain added: “We have many talented youngsters coming through at the club and a recently established Academy structure.

“Preston will play a big part in bringing our young cricketers through and will be an inspirational figure.”

Mommsen, who will lead Scotland at next month’s T20 World Cup in India, was a member of the Carlton team which won the final SNCL title in 2011 and admitted it was a wrench to leave the Grange Loan outfit.

He said: “It was an incredibly tough decision to leave Carlton. The club has played a huge part in my development both as a player, and as a person.

“There were numerous people at the club who had a significant impact on my career and I’d particularly like to thank Fraser, Drummo, Gillie, Cedric and Jamie for all they did.

“I believe the time was right for a change, and I am really excited to be joining the Grange this summer.

“There are some quality youngsters coming through the club and I am looking forward to being able to play a part in their development, and furthermore help contribute to the ongoing success of the club.

“I've had some really positive initial discussions with Blainy - he clearly has a brilliant vision for the club. It's an exciting time at the club and I'm grateful to now be a part of it.”

Grange launch their Eastern Premier title defence at Falkland on April 30.