Worcestershire approach Hoggard

Worcestershire have made a formal request to speak to Matthew Hoggard, the former England fast bowler, whose contract with Yorkshire expires at the end of the season.

Earlier this month, Hoggard hinted that his future may not be with Yorkshire, the club where he has spent his entire career. Reported to be angry at not featuring in the side's one-day team this year, Hoggard said: "I like to be in charge of my future rather than the other way round. Obviously, cricket is my job and you've got to go where the work is, and if I'm not getting any work up here, so to speak, then it's possible I might have to go and look for it elsewhere."

Worcestershire cannot speak to Hoggard until a 28-day interim period has elapsed after his contract expires, but they are reportedly keen to secure an experienced fast bowler owing to Simon Jones' unfortunate and persistent injuries, which continue to blight his career.

Hoggard, 32, was dropped by England after the Hamilton Test against New Zealand in March, 2008, and has not featured since. He is Yorkshire's leading wicket-taker in the Championship, with 15 wickets at 31.13 this season.