McGrath and Yorkshire continue battle

Anthony's McGrath future appears away from Yorkshire © Getty Images

Anthony McGrath's county future still appears to be away from Headingley after his solicitors insisted his contract with Yorkshire is over. The club have said they are still holding out hope of resolving the problems with McGrath, but his agents says this is far from the case.

They claim McGrath is free to speak to other counties - with rumours suggesting Lancashire are the favourites for his signature - although Yorkshire believe he has broken ECB rules if he talks to other potential employers.

The statement from McGrath's lawyers said: "It was reported last Friday that Yorkshire CCC is still hopeful that Anthony McGrath will play for the club during the 2007 season.

"McGrath will not be playing for Yorkshire CCC during the 2007 season. His contract with Yorkshire has come to an end. This has been communicated unequivocally to the club in no uncertain terms by McGrath's solicitors."

Press reports on Friday said that Stewart Regan, Yorkshire's chief executive, had written to other counties warning them not to talk to McGrath. The letter reportedly says: "It is possible you may be approached by Mr McGrath's agent, regarding the possibility of him playing for your club.

"I am, however, putting you on notice that as matters currently stand, Yorkshire would regard any such approaches as constituting a breach of [ECB] regulation seven."

However, the lawyers' statement continues: "The ECB has confirmed in writing to McGrath that in the event his contract with the club has come to an end and the club have been given the relevant notice that he may hold discussions with other counties."

McGrath has previously said his reasons for wanting to leave Yorkshire are a breakdown in his relationship with the club and a wish to reignite his England career. His solicitor Mike Townley said: "It has been made 100% clear to Yorkshire through their solicitors that McGrath's employment contract has been brought to an end and therefore that he will not be playing for them in the future.

"I therefore couldn't understand why the club said that they are still hopeful that he will be playing for Yorkshire next season. In addition McGrath is now entitled to speak to other counties regarding new employment for next season - and this is what he intends to do."