Taylor calls time on first-class career

Chris Taylor has parted ways with Yorkshire a year before his contract with the county was due to expire in order to focus on his business interests. Taylor, 28, founded the Pro Cricket Coaching Academy in 2006 with Andrew Gale, his Yorkshire team-mate, to provide coaching across the Midlands and northern England. He came to the decision by mutual consent with the county after becoming frustrated by his lack of opportunities since rejoining the club after a two-year spell with Derbyshire.

"Following my successful stint with Derbyshire I genuinely thought I could make a real impact back at Yorkshire," said Taylor, who made his first-class debut for Yorkshire in 2001. "However, I have been somewhat disappointed not to have played more first-team cricket. That said, I do realise there are some very exciting young cricketers emerging at the club and, as such, it is unlikely I will get any first XI opportunities in 2010. The last thing I want is to block the development of talented young cricketers making their way in the game."

Stewart Regan, the Yorkshire chief executive, added: "Chris is a great guy and I am sorry that he has not had the breaks he needed to establish himself in our first team. I would like to thank him for his contribution over the last two years and wish him well in his new venture."