SEAMER Richard Jones has left Worcestershire by mutual consent after eight years at the club.

Since making his debut in April 2007, Jones made 41 first-class appearances for the County but became frustrated by the lack of opportunities in all forms of cricket and subsequently spent the last six weeks of the 2013 season on loan at Warwickshire.

Director of cricket Steve Rhodes said: “Richard has been contracted to Worcestershire since 2005, but in recent times the inability to force his way into the side has been frustrating for both him and the club.

“While it is never nice to see players leave, Richard feels that a new challenge with another county will be beneficial in order for him to progress in all forms of the game and we thank him for his efforts and wish him well for the future.”

Jones added: “I have thoroughly enjoyed my time at Worcestershire but feel at 27-years-old a new challenge will give me the opportunity to push for a place in both the four-day and one-day formats.

“I would like to thank the County for their support over recent years and for their help in facilitating my move to pastures new.”