Matthew Walker walks out on Wellington

Matthew Walker has walked out on Wellington after a row with Vaughn Johnson, the coach.

Walker, 27, said that his relationship with Johnson had deteriorated rapidly since a fitness test on October 1. "We couldn't communicate, we could no longer continue a healthy working relationship," he said. "It was pointless to try to go on. It is sad and unfortunate for everyone. I feel disappointed. For the majority of the time Vaughn had the players' best interests at heart. Sometimes he got a bit carried away."

Johnson was shocked by Walker's decision. "It comes as a complete surprise to me. I thought our relationship was pretty strong. I'm extremely disappointed we could not get around the table and talk about it."

Wellington officials and the New Zealand Cricket Players' Association had tried to arbitrate without success. Johnson appears to have the backing of other Wellington players and none have come forward to support Walker.