Nottinghamshire release Footitt

Mark Footitt, right, takes the wicket of James Foster in 2007. He has not appeared in the championship since that season

Fast bowler Mark Footitt has been released from his Nottinghamshire contract with immediate effect.

The 23-year-old left-armer, who picked up 23 wickets from nine first-class matches, has struggled with injuries in his time at Trent Bridge, including a bulging disc in his back that ruled him out last season.

He has played a single first-class match this season, against Oxford UCCE in June.

Notts director of cricket Mick Newell said: “It’s a shame things haven’t worked out for Mark, but hopefully he will have the opportunity to go on trial with another county before the end of the season and get a fresh start.

“I’d like to thank Mark for his efforts over the past five years and we wish him all the best for the future.”

Footitt picked up 4-45 on his first-class debut against Glamorgan in 2005 but only made five more appearances in the LV= County Championship, with his last coming against Derbyshire in June 2007.