Blewett among three players released by Notts

Nottinghamshire announced today that three players, including overseas star Greg Blewett, will be released at the end of the current season.

The South Australian batsman will leave Trent Bridge along with slow left arm bowler Richard Stemp and 21-year-old batsman Chris Hewison.

Cricket manager Clive Rice said: "Greg came to the club with a terrific track record in Australia and has contributed fantastically both on the field and in the dressing room, where he has helped out the younger players.

"He has been consistent and at times has been a delight to watch but we have struggled to take 20 wickets in games this season and so have decided to go for someone who can make a major contribution with the ball."

Blewett has been an ever-present in the Notts team this season and has scored 1,277 runs in the Championship, including five 50s and five hundreds, as well as 453 in the Norwich Union League.

Stemp has played five Championship and eight Norwich Union League games but has missed the final 10 weeks of the season with injury while Hewison has featured in just one NUL match.

Added Rice: "Over the past two seasons we have had a look at Chris but our feeling is that there are younger players here who can compete for a first-team place who we need to give a chance to.

"He has not been pushing for a place often enough and from a squad where I want competition for all places, I've decided to let him go. He has been good value on the staff and I wish him every success in the future."