Jaques played 11 tests for Australia

Departing Australian batsman Phil Jaques says Worcestershire must hang on to their young players, and build a side around them.

Jaques was man of the match in his last game for the club, Sunday's FP t20 clash against Leicestershire.

But before he left New Road he told BBC Hereford and Worcester: "We need to do everything we can to keep the young players at the club.

"Not let go of them too early and give them the time that they need."

He added: "Jonesy's [Richard Jones] early-season form was fantastic. He bowls fast and if he can be a bit more consistent, I think he will be a fine player.

"Moeen [Ali] and Alexei [Kervezee] have kicked on this summer, they are both very good young players and Jack Shantry has bowled well. He's a bit unorthodox, a bit different.

"They are the players we must build the side around."

Jaques, who has had three spells at New Road, will be replaced by Bangladesh skipper Shakib Al Hasan as the Worcestershire overseas player for the second half of the season.

But he says he not ruled out a return in the future: "It's a bit early to say, we haven't spoken about it, who knows what will happen but I have really enjoyed my time here."

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