Ashes winner Geraint Jones announces his retirement
Wednesday 8 July 2015 11:05, UK
Ashes winner Geraint Jones has announced that he will retire from cricket at the end of the season.
The 38-year-old has also relinquished the Gloucestershire captaincy.
He joined the side on a two-year-deal in October last year following a successful loan spell but has decided to end his stay at Nevil Road a year early.
The wicketkeeper-batsman played all five Tests in England's historic victory over Australia in 2005.
He chose to confirm his retirement on the same day the two rivals lock horns in the first Ashes Test in Cardiff.
Jones told www.gloscricket.co.uk: "It's been something I’ve been thinking about quite strongly in the last few weeks and I've come to the decision that this season will be my last as a cricket player.
"But it's on a positive note that I've made the decision. Yes the family side has been a big consideration but ultimately it's about what's best for Gloucestershire Cricket and this squad.
"Over the last few weeks I felt there were guys who needed an opportunity and my place in the team was potentially that opportunity.
"I still want to play a big role in helping the team on and off the field but now is a chance for them to start to formulate the best way forward for this group of players and for Gloucestershire Cricket."
Gloucestershire head coach Richard Dawson said: "I respect Geraint's decision and the reasons behind it. He has had a fantastic career and still has a big role to play in the development of the team going forward."
Chief executive Will Brown added: "I would like to congratulate Geraint on a wonderful career and hope he can add to it with Gloucestershire up and until the end of the season.
"I would like to thank him for the role he has played in leading and developing the squad during his time here. While it is a shame that he won’t be continuing this beyond this season we completely understand his decision and wish him all the best for his retirement come the end of the season."
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