OXFORDSHIRE have decided against employing player-coach Jamie Hewitt for a third season.

The former Middlesex and Kent seamer became Oxon's first professional for around 70 years when he was recruited by the county in 2005.

But he failed to make the impact that was anticipated.

In his first aseason, he took 21 wickets at an average of 28.67, and scored 134 runs at 16.75. Last summer, he managed only 13 wickets at 37 runs apiece, hitting 241 runs at 24.10.

News of the county's decision not to take on Hewitt again was reported to the Oxfordshire Cricket Board's annual meeting at Lord Williams's School, Thame.

And yesterday OCB secretary Peter O'Neill said: "We have not re-engaged him because although he was a very good coach and a nice guy, he was not producing the goods on the field for us.

"We hoped he would have made an impact as a bowler. He got a couple of 50s, but was not doing what he was brought into do.

"I think he accepted that and there is no problem.

"He wants to stay involved in the system, but it is where we accommodate him.

"I don't whether we might be able to use his coaching experience in some way or other."

Despite Hewitt proving a disappointment, Oxon are exploring the possibility of employing a replacement for 2007.

O'Neill added: "It maybe that we decide that no-one suits ours bill. There are a lot of people out there who are quite happy to take the money.

"Jamie was not like that in the least. He was not in it for the money."

Meanwhile, Banbury wicket-keeper Ian Hawtin continues as captain.