PROFESSIONAL cricketer Steffan Jones is to begin a career teaching cricket, rugby and sport at Wellington School when he retires from the sport at the end of the current season.

The 37-year old fast bowler was offered a two year player/coaching contract by Derbyshire but chose instead to return to his family home in Somerset.

On accepting the post at Wellington School, Mr Jones said: “My plan is to turn Wellington School into the best cricket school in the country in 10 years time.

“I am very grateful for the offer made by Derbyshire and I know they did everything they could to persuade me to stay, but the opportunity of being Head of Cricket at a prestigious school and returning back to my family home is too good for me to miss.”

Martin Reader, Headmaster of Wellington School said: “We are really excited that Steffan has accepted the post of master in charge of cricket.

“He will be teaching Physical Education and coaching cricket and rugby.

“He made an enormous impact when he was coaching here two years ago and we are delighted that he will be joining the staff in September.

He will also be visiting local primary schools as part of Wellington School's outreach programme.”

Over the course of his 15-year career, Mr Jones has represented Wales Minor Counties, Cambridge University, Northamptonshire and Kent as well as playing 84 first-class matches over two spells at Somerset County Cricket Club.

He has played 40 first class matches for Derbyshire to date and has achieved 123 first-class wickets.