Lewis 'in talks with other counties' after termination of contract

Former England player Chris Lewis has had his contract with Leicestershire terminated by mutual agreement - but this does not mean the controversial all-rounder is retiring from first-class cricket.

It is understood that 32-year-old Lewis, currently in Australia, is in talks with other counties, though he has also been linked with a Nottinghamshire club side.

Lewis had two years to run on his contract at Leicestershire but the county's administrative secretary Kevin Hill said: "We have mutually agreed to terminate his contract on the basis that his long-standing medical condition prevents him from playing in the majority of four-day matches."

Lewis was restricted to five Championship appearances for Leicestershire last season because of a hip injury.

Chairman Roger Goadby said: "We do thank Chris for his contribution to Leicestershire's success in recent years and I do wish him all the best in the future."

Lewis made his debut for Leicestershire in 1987, moved to Nottinghamshire in 1992 and Surrey in 1996 before returning to Grace Road in 1998 as vice-captain.

One of the most naturally gifted players of his generation, the Guyanese-born Lewis was a sharp bowler, hard-hitting batsman and outstanding fielder.

However, in 32 Tests he scored 1,105 runs at an average of 23 and his 93 wickets cost an expensive 37 apiece - a poor return for a player of his talent.

In the end he became best known for off-field events. He once had his head shaved by Devon Malcolm in the West Indies and missed a Test with sunstroke. He also once failed to turn up on time for a Test, claiming a burst tyre, an excuse that cut no ice with then chairman of selectors Ray Illingworth.

In the summer of 1998 he angered many of his former team mates by indirectly implicating England players in the match-fixing affair although he never revealed a specific name in public.

Police investigated his claims but took no further action.