Former Kent and England wicketkeeper Geraint Jones has announced he will retire at the end of the season.

The 38 year old, who turns 39 next Tuesday, has called time on a spectacular career having left Kent for Gloucestershire over the winter.

After 14 seasons with Kent, Jones was given a two year deal with Gloucestershire as captain, but the Papua New Guinea born wicketkeeper has decided to hang up the gloves a year early.

Explaining his decision, Jones revealed it was something he had been contemplating for some time:

“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.”

Commenting on Jones’ decision 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.”

Jones will continue to play for Gloucestershire for the rest of this season in all formats and could face Kent in the Natwest T20 Blast at Cheltenham on Sunday.

The stats will show he played 34 Tests and 49 One Day Internationals for England and was an integral part of the Ashes side that won in 2005 and forever will be remembered as taking “that catch”.

What statistics won’t tell you is that Geraint is a bloody nice bloke, quiet and unassuming, always got time for the fans and great to help out kids.

I have been fortunate enough to know Geraint for most of his professional career, watching him for both Kent and England.

In all of the years I have known Geraint, he has been the best cricketer to deal with, but most importantly, he has been a very good friend.