Friday 21 November 2014 14:07, UK
Glamorgan all-rounder Jim Allenby has been released from his contract to join Somerset, with Craig Meschede heading in the opposite direction.
Meschede leaves Somerset to replace Allenby at the SWALEC Stadium on a season-long loan deal.
Allenby, 32, who was born in Western Australia but is England qualified, averages over 40 with the bat in first-class cricket and has taken 254 wickets at 25.79 runs each in the 121 games he has played.
He also has an impressive record in one-day cricket and in his 95 List A matches he averages 26.20 with the bat and 31.85 with the ball, while in T20 cricket he has scored 2500 runs at 32.09 and claimed 52 wickets at 32.40.
Glamorgan chief executive Hugh Morris said: "Whilst we appreciate the on-field contribution Jim has made to Glamorgan County Cricket Club over the past five seasons, we are disappointed he feels the next stage of his career would be best served away from the SWALEC Stadium.
"It is a shame to see Jim depart, but as we are focused on rebuilding a team capable of consistently competing for domestic honours, we need to have everyone at the Club fully committed to bringing success back to the county.”
I leave Glamorgan with some great memories and what I hope will be lifelong friendships. I wish the players every success.
Allenby said: "I have enjoyed my time at Glamorgan and I would like to thank the supporters for welcoming me to Wales and for all the support whilst I have played for the club.
"I leave Glamorgan with some great memories and what I hope will be lifelong friendships. I wish the players every success and hope they have long and enjoyable careers.”
Somerset director of cricket Matt Maynard said: “I am delighted that Jim is joining us. Not only is he an outstanding player in all formats, he is a great bloke and a strong character and I am sure he will play a key part in helping us to build a cohesive and successful team.”
All-rounder Meschede, 22, came through the Academy at Somerset and made his senior debut in 2011.
He had limited opportunities at the County Ground last summer and is joining Glamorgan for 2015 with a view to him being able to play more first-team cricket.
Meschede said: "I am relishing the opportunity of developing my skills as a professional cricketer and I am really looking forward to the challenges and excitement of joining Glamorgan for the season."
Glamorgan also confirmed that 'List A' Player of the Year Jacques Rudolph has extended his contract with the County until the end of 2017.
