Coles declines new Kent offer

Matt Coles has left Kent having declined a new offer which has left the club frustrated by his decision.

Coles, 23, who has represented England Lions, has had an injury-hit season including just seven Championship appearances which have brought 13 wickets at 42.23. Although viewed as an allrounder, his four-day batting average for the season is down at 17.

Kent's chairman of cricket, Graham Johnson, said: "Having seen Matt develop through the Kent system with all the support that this has provided him, it is disappointing that he feels he needs to go elsewhere in search of a way to deliver to his potential.

"We wish him well and are now focused on developing our squad of players who have a desire to play for Kent and have the same vision."

Coles was one of two players - along with Ben Stokes - sent home from the Lions tour of Australia earlier this year for disciplinary reasons. He has not featured for the Lions since.