McGrath set for legal battle with Yorkshire

Anthony McGrath's future does not seem to be with the white rose of Yorkshire © Getty Images

The turbulent times at Yorkshire show no signs of abating with Anthony McGrath, one of the club's senior players, set to try to leave Headingley despite being offered the captaincy for next season.

This news comes in the wake of Chris Adams's last minute decision to turn down a move to Yorkshire in favour of staying at Sussex. McGrath had been lined up as the new captain, alongside a new three-year contract, but is instead focusing his interest elsewhere. However, Yorkshire have made it clear to McGrath that he is still under contract and they are not willing to release him, which leaves the situation heading for a legal battle.

Stewart Regan, the chief executive, told the club's website: "We are bitterly disappointed that Anthony has turned down this opportunity. He has been a Yorkshire player since his teens, and it is sad that he no longer wants to be part of this club.

"I have personally spent several hours with him over the past few weeks, offered him the captaincy and a very attractive contract, but he still wishes to go elsewhere. I have therefore reminded him that he is under contract with this club, and we are not prepared to release him from his obligation.

"Unfortunately, it is my understanding that he intends to try and break his contract. If he does not want to play for the club it will ultimately end up in solicitors' hands. It is a very sad state of affairs.

However, Regan tried to remain positive about the direction of the club after it managed to escape Championship relegation in 2006. "This club has taken some knocks in recent weeks, but it's been around for 143 years, and I'm sure it'll be here for many more. It's at times like this that we need to be united, and I hope members and staff will now get behind the players, in particular the younger lads who will certainly get their chances next season."

McGrath, 31, made his Yorkshire debut in 1995 and has scored 9816 runs in first-class cricket. He played four Tests for England in 2003 alongside 14 one-day internationals.