Essex agree to let Tudor go

Essex have allowed former England fast bowler Alex Tudor to leave the county, initially on loan, with a view to a permanent move.

Tudor, who has played 10 Tests and three ODIs, has had limited opportunities in the Essex first team this season despite overcoming injury problems which have plagued his career.

The 30-year-old joined Essex from Surrey after the 2004 season but could not add to his international appearances due largely to a knee injury.

Essex chief executive David East said: “Alex has been with us since 2005 and has proved his fitness on a consistent basis after overcoming early injury problems.

"He worked extremely hard over the winter with our strength and conditioning coach and came back as fit as ever for the start of the 2008 campaign.

Alex Tudor's only one-day appearance this season was in the FP Trophy quarter-final

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“There is no doubt he has a great deal still to offer in the professional game so we agreed that it would be in his best interests to explore alternative opportunities.

“On that basis we have agreed that we are prepared to loan Alex to another county over the course of the rest of the season should an opportunity arise, and we wish him well in his future career wherever he ends up.”

Tudor, who has made four LV County Championship appearances this season, added: “I have thoroughly enjoyed my four years at Essex and am delighted to have been able to prove my fitness during my time at the club.

“I understand my opportunities will be limited with Essex from now on but I feel I still have plenty to offer and am keen to get the chance to prove that with another county.

“The club have been willing for me to play elsewhere this season which is a great gesture on their part and gives me the opportunity of proving myself to any potential employers. I’m still hungry for success.”

Tudor, who hit 99 not out against New Zealand on his home Test debut in 1999, reminded everyone of his ability during his time at Essex with a century against Derbyshire and 5-67 against Somerset in 2006.

“It’s been frustrating at times not getting a run in the side but I know that I’ve looked after myself and still have plenty to offer. It’s just a case of getting the opportunity now,” he said.

“I’ve missed so much cricket that now I need to be playing regularly and with the squad set up at Essex that doesn’t seem likely.

"It’s a shame I have to go but we’ve all chatted about it and this seems the best way for everyone.”