SOMERSET have today announced that Alfonso Thomas will be leaving the club at the end of the 2015 season.

The 38-year-old – who has taken over 550 wickets for the county - first joined Somerset prior to the start of the 2008 season and has played in 91 first class matches, scoring 1,852 runs and taking 306 wickets.

In List A cricket, Thomas played 71 games and took 113 wickets with a best of 4-18, whilst in T20 cricket he has played 104 games and taken 137 wickets.

In 2013, Alfonso became the highest T20 wicket taker in the world and is currently fourth having taken a total of 263 in his career.

Director of cricket, Matt Maynard said: “Alfonso has proved himself to be one of the best bowlers in one-day cricket - particularly in high pressure situations where he has proved himself to be world class time and time again.

“Alfonso’s contribution to Somerset has been immense over many years and I am sure I can speak for all Somerset supporters in extending their thanks and best wishes to Alfonso and his family for the future.

Alfonso Thomas said: “I have thoroughly enjoyed my career at Somerset and extend huge thanks to Brian Rose who believed in me some years ago and asked me to join the club.

“I wish my teammates and club all the best for the future.

“It’s been great fun but like all good things they eventually come to an end.

“I am intending to remain in cricket, either continuing to play or by making the transition into coaching – it was a great privilege to be asked by Gary Kirsten to work with his bowlers during the IPL in India this year that I really enjoyed.

“I plan to take a few weeks over the off season to consider several alternative options before deciding exactly which path to take.

“I hope that at some point in the future I will get the opportunity to be involved in the Club in some capacity.”

“I’ve had fantastic support from the supporters over the years and would like them to know that it has always been greatly appreciated.”