Shahzad makes for the exit at Sussex

FORMER England bowler Ajmal Shahzad is looking for a new county after leaving Sussex with immediate effect.

Shahzad, 31, played for England 15 times across all formats, including one Test match in 2010, but hasn’t played for Sussex since mid-May.

He has featured in both the County Championship and One-Day Cup this season, but has had limited opportunities and wants to be playing first-team cricket regularly.

Shahzad said: “I have loved my time at Sussex and I’m very grateful to everyone at the club for their support over the last few years.

“But I think it is clear that myself and the club are going in different directions and it suits both parties to part ways.

“I’m really excited about the next stage of my career and it is my intention to be back playing cricket as soon as possible.

“I have a huge amount to offer a county and I know I will be a valuable asset to someone.

“I would like to thank (head coach) Mark Davis, (director of cricket) Keith Greenfield and the rest of the club for all their support and I wish them well in the future.”

Shahzad has also played for Lancashire, his native Yorkshire and Nottinghamshire, where he joined Sussex from in 2015.

His contract at Hove was due to expire at the end of the current season.

Director of cricket Keith Greenfield said: “Ajmal’s attitude has always been exemplary and he has been a great role model for the youngsters at the club.

“He continues to strive to develop himself as a cricketer.

“But we recognise that he wants and needs to be playing first-team cricket and he will hopefully get an opportunity at another county where he can show his worth.”