Wood released by Yorkshire

Yorkshire have released opening batsman Matthew Wood, who hasn't managed a Championship match this season. Wood, 30, made his debut in 1997 but lost his place to Joe Sayers and has been stuck in the second team.

"Matthew has given outstanding service to Yorkshire and has always been thoroughly professional in his approach to the game," said Stewart Regan, the Yorkshire chief executive. "We greatly appreciate his efforts for the club over the past decade and wish him every success in the future."

He added that it had been a difficult decision to take, but one which the player had accepted. Yorkshire are now circulating other counties to inform them of Wood's availability and the hope is that he will be able to continue his first class career elsewhere.

Wood leaves Yorkshire with 6840 runs at 33.52 in first-class cricket and 3271 runs at 27 in one-day matches.