Brant leaves Essex

'I had two fantastic summers in England,' said Scott Brant © Getty Images

Scott Brant, one of Essex's overseas players since 2003, has decided to leave the club after discussions with his family.

Brant, 21, was born in Zimbabwe, but he has now settled in Queensland, Australia. He took 49 first-class wickets in his two summers at Essex with his left-arm fast-medium. "I have had two fantastic summers in England so far," he said in a statement, "but feel that if I was to play county cricket next year, it would only be for part of the season. I fully understand Essex require a player who can commit for the whole season and would like to thank them for the understanding they have shown in this matter."

David East, Essex's chief executive, said: "We thank Scott for his contributions over the last two years, and wish him well for the future."