Jones on England radar

Simon Jones has set his sights on returning to the England side following his move

Simon Jones has received encouraging words from England coach Peter Moores over his international future.

The fast bowler, who completed the formalities of his move from Glamorgan to Worcestershire on Friday, still harbours ambitions of playing at the highest level.

Jones last turned out for England in the fourth Test at Trent Bridge during the 2005 Ashes series, and has made only 14 appearances in domestic cricket due to a succession of injuries.

But the 28-year-old, whose pace and control of reverse swing enabled him to pick up 18 wickets at an average of 21 in four Tests against Australia in 2005, revealed Moores has given him something to work towards.

“I have spoken to Peter Moores a couple of times,” Jones said.

“Obviously he is a busy man with the schedules international sides have, but we have spoken about things and on the whole it has been positive.

“England have supported me so well during a tough period and they are going to carry on doing so even though I don’t have an ECB central contract.

Jones has been in touch with England coach Peter Moores

“Some of the guys involved have also given me words of encouragement. Kevin Pietersen and Matthew Hoggard have been really good to me, reminding me what I was a part of, and what I can still be a part of.

“I’m regularly in touch with Craig Ranson, who’s a physiotherapist involved with England, so he’s able to keep people up to speed with where I am at.

“But I realise the only way I am going to force my way back in is by doing well in county cricket for Worcestershire, and that has to be my goal for the time being.”

Worcestershire director of cricket Steven Rhodes also backed Jones to become part of Moores’ plans.

Rhodes has been impressed with Jones’ attitude and determination to force his way back into the Test and one-day side.

“Simon has proved himself at the highest level but what impressed me most during our discussions is his overwhelming desire to regain his England place,” Rhodes said.

“Ultimately, that is where Simon wants to be, and I am happy with that because it means he has been performing well in county cricket to earn that chance.

“I’m sure Simon realises it won’t be easy. It won’t be as simple as getting the odd five-for.

“Ryan Sidebottom, Jimmy Anderson, Stuart Broad have all done well and I’m sure Hoggard and (Steve) Harmison won’t give up their places without a fight.

Jones has been encouraged by support from England

“It won’t be as easy as perhaps some people think, but if that period when he is doing well is extended then the club will benefit.”

Rhodes is confident Jones will bring a winning mentality to the club.

Worcestershire were relegated from LV County Championship Division One last season and also suffered with floods at New Road, of which they are still counting the cost.

But Rhodes claims the arrival of a star name has given everybody associated with the club a lift.

He said: “He is an Ashes winner and there aren’t too many of them about, so overall it is a massive signing for us, up there with a (Ian) Botham or a (Graham) Dilley.

“He is proven strike bowler and with ability to reverse-swing the ball very effectively.

“We always try to sign players who are motivated to perform consistently well and Simon clearly fulfils this criteria.

“Simon is someone who not only improves our squad but will also pass on valuable experience to other players here.

“His signing has been a boost to everyone here after a tough time recently and I’m confident he will prove to be a major asset for us.”