Jones will return for Worcs tour

Jones is starting his second season at New Road

Worcestershire paceman Simon Jones will start bowling soon for the first time since his latest knee operation.

The 30-year-old will be in the party for Worcestershire's pre-season tour of South Africa after he was given the all-clear to continue his rehab.

Director of cricket Steve Rhodes said: "He's worked very hard on his general fitness during the winter but hasn't started running and bowling yet.

"He won't do that until we go off to South Africa."

Rhodes continued: "The scans were pretty good. They showed that the area that was operated on and where cartilage was replaced has improved. But there are still one or two areas that need to set hard."

Jones played a major role in Worcestershire gaining promotion to Division One of the LV County Championship.

Ashley Noffke won the 2008 State Cricket Player of the Year award

He took 42 wickets in nine games during his first season at New Road, after making the move from Glamorgan. But Rhodes says they will not press Jones back into action until he is ready to return.

"Simon did a fantastic job last season," said Rhodes. "He stayed fit for most of the season and got named by England in their provisional squad for the ICC Trophy.

"He's a very valuable bowler and we don't see the point in rushing things.

"The main thing is to make sure he is fit for the start of the season."

Meanwhile the county's 2009 overseas player, Australian all-rounder Ashley Noffke, is hoping to get clearance from Cricket Australia to play for Worcestershire.

Noffke underwent surgery last week to release a nerve in his back which has restricted his appearances for Queensland this winter.

Worcestershire have also confirmed that youngster Richard Jones has signed a contract to cover this coming summer.

Stourbridge-born Jones, 22, has played just three County Championship matches and taken three wickets since making his debut in May 2007.

But Rhodes said: "Richard proved over the winter that he is willing to put in the hard graft to accomplish his goals."

Jones said: "I'm very happy that I was given the opportunity, help and support over the winter to prove my worth and I am delighted to continue to be a part of the team."