Dillon Pennington and Ashes star Josh Tongue to leave Worcestershire

The pair, both products of the club’s academy, will join Nottinghamshire at the end of the 2023 season.

Chief executive officer Ashley Giles said the club had gone to great lengths to try to keep them, expressing his disappointment at their decision.

He said: “It’s disappointing to see two highly talented homegrown players opt to pursue opportunities elsewhere. 

“The Club have made great efforts to find a way to retain both here at Worcestershire and, until recently, were optimistic about achieving that.

“We wish Josh and Dillon the very best of luck in the future"

The announcement comes just days after Tongue impressed on his Ashes debut (Image: PA)

Tongue, 25, joined the club as a six-year-old, making his first class debut in 2016 before being awarded his full England Test cap this summer.

He featured in 47 first class, and 25 white-ball games for the county.

Tongue said: “A big thank you to everyone who has supported me from when I started at Worcestershire at six years old, progressing through the pathway and the academy before signing my first professional contract in 2016/7.

“I’ve really enjoyed my time here and have some incredible memories. The Club will always be close to my heart. 

“I wish everyone at the Club success for the years ahead.”

Pennington, 24, who has featured in a total of 40 first class and 66 white-ball games, made his first class debut for the Club in June 2018, and took 190 wickets across all formats.

He said: “I am immensely grateful to Worcestershire for all the incredible support, guidance, and opportunities they have provided me from the moment I joined the academy as a 17-year-old through over 100 appearances for the Club.

“Moving to Nottinghamshire marks a new chapter in my career, and I carry with me the invaluable lessons and experiences I gained here. 

“Worcestershire will always hold a special place in my heart, and I extend my deepest gratitude to the Club, my teammates, and the amazing members and supporters for always believing in me. 

“The special memories of walking down the steps of the Graeme Hick Pavilion and interacting with the members will stay with me forever.

“Thank you to everyone at Worcestershire for shaping me into the cricketer I am today.”

Subject to any commitments with the England team, both players will remain eligible for selection until the end of the season.

Pennington has been at the club since he was 17 (Image: PA)