Jaques drops plans to sue the ECB

Phil Jaques is unlikely to play for Northamptonshire this season after they decided to abandon their bid to have him classified as an English-qualified player.

Jaques, who was born in Australia but has a British passport, scored more than 1400 runs in all competitions last summer, but jeopardised his England-qualified status by turning out for New South Wales in Australia this winter, which effectively re-classified him as an overseas player in the eyes of the ECB.

Northants considered challenging the ECB's registration regulations in court in order to hang on to Jaques, but have now decided not to pursue the case. In a statement issued today, they said: "As a result of detailed discussions with the ECB, Northamptonshire have recognised that as Phil Jaques opted to qualify for Australia by playing for New South Wales during the winter, he contravenes current ECB regulations and would therefore not be able to play for Northamptonshire as a 'qualified' player in the 2004 season.

"After considerable thought and consultation, the committee fully support the need for regulations which focus on the development of cricketers who are committed and qualified to play for England. In view of the above, the application to register Phil, as a result of holding a British passport, has been withdrawn."

Northants have already signed the South Africans Martin van Jaarsveld and Johann Louw as their two overseas players for the coming season, leaving no place for Jaques.

Simon Schanschieff, Northamptonshire's chairman, said: "Phil is an outstanding talent and we were delighted with the way he grasped his opportunity with us last season. We were naturally keen to retain his services, but we also support the governing body in their efforts to produce a successful England team. It is very disappointing for us, but it will give emerging players in our squad the opportunity they want to perform in first-division cricket."

And David Kemp, the chairman of the ECB's Registration and Contracts committee, was delighted with the decision. He said: "The committee are very pleased this issue has been resolved. We are charged with drafting and implementing registration regulations agreed by the first-class counties, and we always aim to ensure these regulations best serve the interests of cricket in this country whilst being in accordance with the law."