THE popular figure of Steffan Jones will be missing from the Somerset line up when the new cricket season gets under way 11 weeks tomorrow, because he will be playing for Northamptonshire (writes Richard Walsh).

"I didn't want to go because I really love it down here, but I was told that I wouldn't be figuring a lot in 2004 and that at the end of the season my contract wouldn't be renewed, which I felt was a bit harsh after what I have done," the Welshman told me.

The 29 year old joined the Cidermen after impressing with his performances for Cambridge University and made his debut for the county in 1997.

Since then he has gained a reputation for being a tireless whole hearted bowler, enjoying his best season in 2001 when he took 59 championship wickets and 22 National League wickets.

At the start of the 2002 season, however, he turned his ankle while warming up for the pre season friendly against Cardiff UCCE at Millfield.

"I fell down that rabbit hole and sadly I've gone downhill since then" he said.

But now he is back to peak fitness. "I'm in the best shape I have ever been. I'm stronger faster and leaner than ever and I reckon I'm fitter than any 19 year old.

"My fitness has transformed me from being a mediocre bowler into someone who was bowling at 90 m.p.h. in the C and G final at Lords in 2001," he continued."

"Kepler Wessels (the Northants coach) wants someone like me who can run in all day and who can open the bowling with Andre Nel.

" I'm looking forward to the new challenge," he said.

During his seven year spell with Somerset, Jones became a firm favourite with the crowds at the County Ground.

"Everyone around the ground is very friendly and makes you feel like one of the family. I think that as a professional cricketer many people are in awe of you, but I have never forgotten where I came from.

I like to chat with people, to hear what they have got to say and I like the close affection that I have enjoyed with the crowds. I'm sure that I won't get that anywhere else," he said.

"Winning the C and G in 2001 was the most amazing day ever," he added.