Mohammad Akram to leave Sussex

Mohammad Akram, the former Pakistan fast bowler, has parted ways with Sussex. Akram, who was classed as an English player after completing a two-year residency qualification, still had a year left on his contract, but cited family reasons for his desire to continue his cricket career elsewhere.

Akram, 30, played nine Tests for Pakistan between 1995-96 and 2000-01, taking 17 wickets at an average of 50.52. He also played 23 one-dayers for them, and before his one-year stint with Sussex, he had turned out for both Northamptonshire and Essex.

"It is with much regret that Sussex have agreed to release Mohammad Akram from his current contract, which should have run to the end of the 2005 season," read a statement released by Sussex. "The club would like to thank Mohammad for all his efforts and wish him well for the future."