Simon Jones to Join Worcestershire

The injury-prone England fast bowler Simon Jones is expected to sign for Worcestershire later this week on a two-year contract.

Jones, who played a starring role in England's 2005 Ashes success, made his debut for Glamorgan in 1998 and played 53 first-class matches and 20 one-day games in 10 years with them.

The Glamorgan chief executive, Mike Fatkin, said: "Naturally we're disappointed that Simon has turned down our offer and decided to leave Glamorgan. However, we appreciate that it's been a difficult decision for him and if this is what he believes gives him his best chance of playing again for England, then we respect that.

"Our offer was a very fair one. We had to balance Simon's understandable need for financial security after losing his central contract with the fact that he has had a number of injury problems over the past few years, but we believe we got that balance absolutely right. Ultimately, though, Simon had to make a decision. We understand he is going to Worcestershire and we wish him well there."

Matthew Maynard, Glamorgan's cricket manager, said: "It was a very tough decision for Simon and I know it's been a huge weight on his mind over the past few weeks. I thought our offer was both fair and attractive and I don't think it was necessarily all about finances. I've known him for a long time and I hope it works out for him.

"As far as putting the squad together for next season is concerned we've already signed Matthew Wood and Adam Shantry and I'll be looking to bring in at least two more players, possibly three depending on budgets, before March. There are a number of options being discussed but I expect to see some more new faces joining in due course."