Gloucestershire release four

Gloucestershire have begun to clear the decks ahead of next season by announcing the release of four players at the end of the 2008 campaign. Allrounder Mark Hardinges, left-arm spinner Ian Fisher along with pace bowlers Carl Greenidge and Will Rudge won't be offered new deals.

Hardinges, who debuted in 1999, and Fisher who arrived from Yorkshire in 2002, have both enjoyed periods of success with Gloucestershire, especially in one-day cricket. But in recent times they have struggled to find regular first-team action and their release comes just days after it was announced John Bracewell was returning to the club.

Greenidge had previously played for Surrey and Northamptonshire before arriving at Bristol in 2005 but his performances have been intermittent. Rudge was a home-grown product and made his debut in 2005.