Tim Groenewald still in Derbyshire's plans - Chris Grant

Derbyshire insist Tim Groenewald is part of their plans but they want to give a chance to their younger players

Derbyshire chairman Chris Grant says wantaway bowler Tim Groenewald could still play this season, despite being dropped for the ongoing County Championship match at Leicestershire.

The 30-year-old was the club's leading wicket-taker prior to this week's game.

But, after announcing he is leaving, Groenewald was dropped by elite performance director Graeme Welch.

"He's still a Derbyshire player and, should Graeme want to choose him, the door is not closed," Grant said.

"Graeme chose not to play him in this particular game, and instead gave Tom Taylor the chance."

Groenewald, whose five-year stay at the 3aaa County Ground will finish at the end of the season, has been a consistent performer for Derbyshire, and his announcement came as a blow to the club, who are without a win in County Championship Division Two this year.

Grant says that the club will use their young players to fill the gap left by the seamer.

"When somebody indicates their desire to leave, you need to look forward and make plans for once they've gone," he added.

"This is an ideal opportunity for Graeme to blood the youngsters, and when he joined the club he identified the great fast-bowling talent coming through.

"Tim's decision means we can plan for the future for once he leaves."

Welch was appointed to his role in January, and Grant says it will take time for his vision to come into fruition at the club, with young players set to play a crucial role.

He added: "We want to bring in experienced players that can nurture the youngsters. Graeme has seen potential in the players brought through the academy, but we need the right experienced players to help them.

"We want to turn the form around. I'm very patient and have thoroughly enjoyed my role at the club over the past three years. But we have to get the right players in, who buy into the vision of the club and not just for the money."