Worcestershire chase Jones

Simon Jones © Getty Images

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Worcestershire have joined the race to sign Glamorgan and England paceman Simon Jones.

Worcestershire director of cricket Steve Rhodes confirmed he had met with the 28-year-old, who will be out of contract with the Welsh club at the end of this month.

Hampshire have also spoken to Jones, who has been dogged by knee problems, and he is also considering a new contract offer at Sophia Gardens.

Rhodes said: “We were given permission to speak to Simon and that is what we have done. We are interested in him and we wouldn't have spoken to him if we weren't.”

Worcestershire chief executive Mark Newton said: “Simon met with Steve Rhodes on Sunday. It was an exploratory meeting and I believe it was very positive.

“But we have not offered Simon anything yet. We are expecting some feedback from him shortly and then we will move on from there.

“It is no secret that we need quality seam bowlers and Simon is certainly one of those. But his medical history will mean that there must be an air of caution.”

Jones, a member of England's Ashes-winning side two years ago, has made only limited appearances for Glamorgan during the 2007 campaign.

He took a solitary wicket at a cost of 290 runs in four LV County Championship games this summer.

Worcestershire signed 23-year-old paceman Gareth Andrew from Somerset last week as they attempt to regain their top-flight status in the championship at the first attempt.

The county have already expressed a desire to bring India paceman Zaheer Khan back to the club for a second spell.

But that would depend on whether India tour Zimbabwe next summer; they are currently due to play two Tests and three one-day internationals.