DEPARTING batsman Vikram Solanki admits Worcestershire will always hold a special place in his heart.

The former England international will be leaving at the end of this season to join Surrey after spending 20 years at New Road.

The 36-year-old former County captain, who won 51 one-day international caps for his country, said: “I will look back on my time at Worcestershire very fondly for many reasons — a lot of them cricketing, but equally a lot of them are off the field.

“I’ve established some friendships here that I value and cherish a great deal and the club has been a big part of my life for the last 20 years.

“It will always hold a dear place in my heart.

“There are probably as many disappointments as things that I am pleased and proud about, but that’s part of sport. I look back on my time very fondly.

“A lot has changed at the club since I’ve been here, but equally a lot has stayed the same. There have been a good number of people who have been here for the time that I’ve been here.

“In fact, it was particularly touching when Martin Watts from the groundstaff came and spoke to me to say he was sorry to see me leaving and wished me well — those are the sort of things that make you realise what a special place this is.

“It’s the people that make this place special. It’s a beautiful ground and everybody talks about how wonderful it is to come and watch and play cricket here, so to have had the pleasure and honour of turning up to work here for the last 20 years is something I’m very proud of and happy to have done.”

Solanki added: “I am disappointed not to be able to finish my career at Worcestershire, but equally I am very excited and looking forward to joining Surrey. I’ve signed a two-year deal with Surrey and I feel fit and well and that I have a good amount to contribute.

“Gareth Batty and Steve Davies are both very dear friends of mine, so I look forward to being part of a team that involves those two personalities, as well as all of the other guys there. I think they’re a talented squad with a good opportunity to challenge for future success.”