Glamorgan re-sign paceman Simon Jones on two-year deal

Former England fast bowler Simon Jones has rejoined Glamorgan on a two-year contract.

The 32-year-old had a year left on his contract with Hampshire but was given permission to hold talks with Glamorgan.

Jones returns to Glamorgan having spent a six-week loan spell with the county last season where he played in ten Twenty20 and three 40-over matches.

"I'm really happy to return home and play for Glamorgan," Jones said.

"This cricket club has played an integral role in my career and my life and I'm thrilled to be back to help achieve success with the club in the next two years and to play regular cricket."

The Llanelli-raised fast bowler made his Glamorgan debut aged 19 and topped England's bowling averages in their 2005 Ashes triumph over Australia.

Jones left the Welsh county to join Worcestershire in 2007 but a series of knee injuries disrupted his spell at New Road.

Glamorgan failed to tempt Jones back in 2009 when the injury-prone seamer left Worcestershire to join Hampshire on an appearance and fitness-related contract.

And, after four years in England, Jones said the prospect of being nearer to his family in south Wales had been a crucial factor in his decision to return.

"It's been a frustrating few seasons for me with injuries but I've put this behind me and I'm thrilled to be moving on with my game," he added.

"Also in the back of my mind, I haven't given up on the dream of playing for England again. I'm confident I still have the form that got me selected in the first place and [that I can] prove some critics wrong."

Glamorgan's managing director of cricket Colin Metson said he was "thrilled" Jones had returned to south Wales.

"He impressed us all both on and off the field when he returned during a brief loan spell earlier this season and we're delighted he is now a permanent fixture here at the Swalec Stadium."