WORCESTERSHIRE director of cricket Steve Rhodes is optimistic that Simon Jones will be heading to New Road next season.

The England 2005 Ashes hero was due to make a decision on his future yesterday but the announcement has been delayed until tomorrow as the Welshman is recovering from a bout of food poisoning.

Jones has been in talks with the County over a possible move to the 2007 NatWest Pro 40 champions.

The 28-year-old pace ace, who is out of contract at Glamorgan, is currently considering offers from his own county and Hampshire as well as Worcestershire.

Jones was due to meet with the Sophia Gardens' cricket manager Matthew Maynard last night but, with the pace ace ill, the pair will now meet tomorrow.

"Simon has been ill," Maynard said.

"I believe he has got food poisoning so I'm expecting to meet him tomorrow and hopefully I'll have a decision."

The England fast bowler, who lost out on an ECB central contract this year, has been plagued with injuries since the memorable series against Australia two years ago.

However, despite his injury woes, Jones has been highly sought-after this autumn.

"I haven't heard anything yet," Rhodes said.

"I'm remaining optimistic that he will still come here. I'm hoping that I will hear something this week.

"I have spoken to Simon on the phone since our meeting and I have texted him as well.

"He hasn't committed himself but I am optimistic."

Worcestershire have made no secret of the need to boost their seam attack following their relegation from LVCC Division One.

The capture of Jones, as well as keeping him fit, and a return to fitness of Matt Mason should give Rhodes the added zip he is after.

The New Road chief has already signed youngster Gareth Andrew from Somerset on a two-year contract and also turned his attentions to 21-year-old Middlesex seamer Chris Whelan.

The Liverpool-born bowler's contract at Lord's expired last week and Rhodes has moved quickly in a bid to capture his signature.

"It is true we have spoken to Chris but at the minute there is nothing definite," the Worcestershire chief said. "He is a quality bowler.

"We are working hard to bring in new players for next season and as soon as we have some news then we will let the supporters know."

Whelan has played only three first-class games and five one-day matches for Middlesex since making his debut at the age of 18.

The medium-fast bowler was named Merseyside sports personality of the year in 2005.