VIKRAM Solanki will follow the well-trodden path from New Road to the Oval, having agreed to join Surrey for next season after Worcestershire continued to stall on a new contract offer.

New Road chiefs were eager to retain the long-serving batsman’s services, but were not in a position to meet his financial demands at this stage of the campaign.

In the autumn of his career, the 36-year-old former England international clearly wanted to secure his future as soon as possible, but the County were not able to provide those assurances and Solanki has opted to move on after 20 years, including five as captain, in Worcestershire’s colours.

County chief executive David Leatherdale said: “Vikram approached us a few weeks ago with regards his future as his contract ends this September. “It is with regret that we have agreed he will leave the County at the end of the present season.

“It was expressed at that time that the County would not be in a position to offer a contract, but hoped to be in a position to do so later in the year when the club’s financial position is clearer.

“We fully understood Vikram’s wish to have greater certainty about his future and gave permission for him to talk to other counties due to his long standing at the club.

“The club and its supporters thank Vikram for his 20 years of service to the County and for his elegant batting and successful captaincy. “Vikram will always receive a warm welcome at New Road and we wish him the very best for the future.”

Solanki, who scored nearly 27,000 runs in all formats for Worcestershire, added: “In recent weeks, with my contract ending and the club unsure of their direction for me, I’ve been able to discuss opportunities with interested counties.

“It’s been from these discussions that Surrey have offered me an exciting chance to finish my career at the Oval. I can assure all of my fellow players and County members that until the end of the season I will give my absolute all to Worcestershire.

“I’m incredibly grateful to Worcestershire for giving me my chance all of those years ago. I have many, many fond memories with the club both on and off the pitch with players, staff and supporters alike and the decision to end our long relationship has not been easy.”

Solanki began his career at New Road in 1995 and has scored 31 first-class hundreds at an average of just over 36, as well as 15 List ‘A’ tons and one in twenty20 cricket.

Chairman of the Professional Cricketers’ Association for the past four years, Solanki also played 51 one-day internationals and three t20 internationals for England.