Gloucestershire close in on Batty signing after releasing long-serving Adshead

Gloucestershire have decided not to offer long-serving wicketkeeper Steve Adshead a new contract.

As revealed in the Evening Post earlier this month, Adshead's departure will leave the way open for the county to sign Jon Batty from Surrey.

Batty, whose parents live in Bristol, has already held talks with Gloucestershire CCC and is expected to be unveiled on a long-term deal this week.

Adshead is now seeking another county. But, contrary to speculation, he is not expected to join Worcestershire.

Adshead arrived at the County Ground in 2004.

Signed as understudy to Gloucestershire great Jack Russell, Adshead was handed the unenviable task of replacing the former England gloveman when he was forced to retire through injury.

Gloucestershire chief executive Tom Richardson said: "We are sorry to see Steve go, but we have to try and strengthen the squad and are looking to build for the future.

"You will not find anyone who has a bad word to say about Steve. Not only has he given the club excellent service during his time here, he has also been a top bloke.

"He always gave 100 per cent and played an important role in our trophy successes."

Adshead was behind the stumps when Gloucestershire CCC beat Worcestershire at Lord's in the 2004 C&G Trophy final before helping the county reach the Twenty20 final three years later. he was also a member of the team which won promotion from the Pro-40 League Second Division.

Director of cricket John Bracewell added: "It is unfortunate to release Steve as he has performed very well for the first team this year.

"We must continue to strengthen the squad at every opportunity."

Adshead said: "I have really enjoyed my time at Gloucestershire and am sad to leave. I'd like to thank everyone at the club for their support."

As well as being accomplished with the gloves, 35-year-old Batty is also a more than capable batsman, having opened for Surrey.

An Oxford University graduate, Batty has so far amassed 8,788 first class career runs at an average of 33.80 and boasts 20 hundreds. His days at Surrey were numbered when officials at The Oval announced the signing of Stephen Davies from Worcestershire.

Tempted by the prospect of effectively signing two players in one and aware of the need to bolster their top-order batting, Gloucestershire were quick to make their interest known.

Steve Snell will remain on the Nevil Road staff and will provide competition for Batty behind the stumps next season.