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Oxford's veteran off-spinner Rupert Evans has retired from playing after a long and distinguished career.

But the 56-year-old former Oxfordshire captain will still be involved as Oxford open their Division 1 campaign at home to Radlett tomorrow.

Evans, who remains as director of cricket, said: “I just think any sort of publicity should go on the young players rather than an old guy like me.

“I have missed playing in pre-season, but you have got to stop some time. I want to let others have a chance.

“I will be there at training on Thursdays and at matches on Saturday as well as helping with the second team in Cherwell Division 1.”

Evans, who is Oxfordshire’s cricket development manager, took 447 Minor Counties wickets for the county.

All-rounders Graham Charlesworth, Joe Porter and David Smith, wicket-keeper Todd Hutcheson and spinner Francois Vainker are also absentees.

Vainker now has close links with Worcestershire, who have asked him to play for Wolverhampton.

Harrison said: “We are disappointed. We feel we could still have a major role in him playing professional cricket.”

But Oxford have signed Stefan Van Dyk from High Wycombe, Dan King from Abingdon and New Zealander Brad Sutherland.

Opening bowler Zia Hamid and fellow youngster, all-rounder Wasim Mehmood, have been promoted to the first team.

Wicket-keeper batsman Jonno Evans returns after a year out injured, with Harrison describing him as “like a new signing”.

Harrison hopes to build another title-winning team.

“This year we are looking for progress and for players to make progress in their own games,” he said.

“You never know it (the title) may happen this year, but it is more of a long-term thing.”

He added: “From the group that have left, only Franky Vainker is continuing to play at the same level.

Jonno Evans is Oxford’s ‘one to watch’.

Harrison said: “We are a fresh new squad.

“It is an exciting period for Oxford.”

IN: Stefan Van Dyk (seam-bowling all-rounder, High Wycombe), Dan King (batsman/wicket-keeper), Brad Sutherland (batting all-rounder, New Zealand), Zia Hamid (seamer, youth ranks), Wasim Mehmood (all-rounder, youth ranks), Jonno Evans (wicket-keeper/batsman, back from injury).

OUT: Graham Charlesworth (all-rounder, Abingdon Vale), Rupert Evans (off-spinner, retired), Joe Porter (all-rounder, work commitments), David Smith (all-rounder, Wollaton), Todd Hutcheson (wicket-keeper/batsman, Ascot), Graham Cessford (seamer), Francois Vainker (left-arm spinner, Wolverhampton).

LAST SEASON: 8th