PACE bowler Marchant de Lange is leaving Somerset County Cricket Club at the end of the season to join Gloucestershire.

de Lange, 31, signed for Somerset as an overseas player on a two-year deal ahead of the 2020 season.

During his time at the Cooper Associates County Ground, the South African has taken 61 wickets across the three formats of the game.

He has also played a prominent role in the club’s community engagement programme.

de Lange said: “It’s been a privilege to play for Somerset and I have thoroughly enjoyed my time in Taunton.

"I would like to thank the players, staff, members and fans for all of their support since I arrived.

“The time has come for a new challenge and I’m looking forward to continuing my cricketing journey.”

Somerset director of cricket Andy Hurry said: “Marchant played a big role in us reaching the Vitality Blast Final in 2021, however First XI opportunities across the formats have been limited for him this summer.

"Moving forward, we are not in a position to guarantee him first team cricket and we therefore completely understand his desire to seek competitive opportunities elsewhere.

“It’s been a privilege to have him with us here at Somerset, and since he arrived in 2020 he has giving everything both on and off the field.

“He has been an incredibly popular member of the playing staff and his attitude and calm manner within the dressing room have been extremely valuable.

“He moves onto the next chapter of his playing career with our best wishes to him and his wonderful family, alongside our gratitude for all his contributions over the last couple of seasons.”