Jefferson to leave Essex

Will Jefferson © Getty Images

Essex have announced that opening batsman Will Jefferson will not be renewing his contract when it expires on September 30 this year.

The club has mutually agreed to Jefferson’s departure with immediate effect and he will not take any further part in the current Essex season.

Jefferson stated: “I have had a very frustrating year due to an accident sustained in the pre-season period and the consequences of this have been that my opportunities to play first-team cricket have been severely limited.

“With the progress of others I feel the best chance of furthering my career in the game lies elsewhere.”

In response, Essex Chief Executive David East stated: “It is always very disappointing when we lose players, particularly those who have been part of our development system for many years.

“Will has been a great asset to the club but we fully understand his reasoning and respect the decision he has made.

“We think it is in Will’s best interest to make a clean break now so that he can fully investigate alternative cricket opportunities whilst the season is ongoing.”