Glamorgan's Simon Jones has confirmed he is to retire from first-class and List A cricket following next Saturday's match at Lord's to focus on playing Twenty20 cricket.
Simon said, "My current contract with Glamorgan finishes at the end of the season, so it's given me a chance to reflect on what I do next. I missed some games early season, so to come back in and be part of getting the team to Lord's has left me hungry to continue playing.
"The Yorkshire Bank 40 final is a fitting opportunity to stop playing the longer forms of the game and concentrate on T20 cricket where I know I can still be at my explosive best."
Simon started his career with Glamorgan in 1998 and went on to play 18 times in Test cricket for England, being a key member of the successful Ashes-winning squad in 2005, where his reverse-swing and pace were key components in England's attack. After leaving Glamorgan in 2007, Simon initially joined Worcestershire and then Hampshire, before returning to Glamorgan on loan in 2011 and then full- time the following year.
Glamorgan Head of Elite Performance Matthew Mott said, "Simon has shown great character and determination to keep pushing himself despite his time out of the game at Glamorgan. We wish him well in his endeavours to concentrate on t20 cricket and thank him for his contribution both on and off the field.
"It is a smart and well thought out decision and I am sure that a number teams around the world will be keen on him given his increased availability for t20 competitions. He is still in great shape and has the passion to keep playing and bowling quick for a few more years to come. Hopefully he can sign off his one-day career with Glamorgan in a winning team at Lords on the 21st."
Glamorgan Chairman Barry O'Brien added, "Simon was not only an integral figure in England regaining The Ashes in 2005 but has had an outstanding career with Glamorgan.
"We respect Simon's decision and we are planning on meeting with him after the Yorkshire Bank 40 Final to discuss his future t20 career."
