Cricket News: Essex County Cricket Club has decided to release Irish fast bowler Adrian McCoubrey at the end of the current Frizzell County Championship season after he failed to hold down a regular place in the county's first team.

Essex Chief Executive David East said: "It was the view of the cricket committee that Adrian was unlikely to have many first-team opportunities in the foreseeable future, and felt that it would be in his best interest to develop his career elsewhere.

"It is always sad when a player's contract is not renewed. Adrian has been thoroughly professional in his approach and commitment during his time with the club and everyone thanks him for his contribution and wishes him well for the future."

McCoubrey, 24, joined Essex from Ballymena CC ahead of the 2003 season and played seven county championship matches and three national league games over the course of his two years with the club.