SOMERSET'S Director of Cricket, Dave Nosworthy is leaving the club at the end of the season.

Nosworthy, who was appointed in December 2012, plans to return to South Africa in the short-term with his family. Somerset's Chief Executive Officer, Guy Lavender, said: “Both the club and Dave have mutually agreed that it is in the best interests of Somerset County Cricket Club to part company at the end of this season.

“Dave will leave with our thanks for all he has done and our best wishes for the future”. “We still have a critical part of the season remaining with Dave in charge and all of our immediate efforts are focused on beating Northamptonshire in our current LV County Championship match.

“The process of recruiting Dave's successor is underway and an announcement will be made in due course". Nosworthy said: "I believe the time is now right for me to return home with my family for a number of personal and business reasons and for me to redirect my own personal energies and ambitions.

“With me being the type of character to always put the club and the team first, I believe I have done as much as I can and that the time is now right to step aside. “There have been highs and lows, and some tough decisions to have been made along the way, but what has been most pleasing to me has been the emergence of some of the younger players who have flourished and have really come through in recent months.

“I have personally learnt a lot over the last two years about people and cricket, and look forward to taking this knowledge and these experiences along with me in to the future.

“Lastly, I've really enjoyed my time at the club and it will always have a special place in my heart.

“I would like to thank the club, the players, the members and staff for allowing me to be part of Somerset and for your patience and help along the way."