Worcs to let Whelan and Wheeldon go

Chris Whelan has been hampered by injury this season and "has not been able to perform at the levels both he and the club would expect," according to the club's director of cricket Steve Rhodes

Worcestershire have announced Chris Whelan and David Wheeldon will be released at the end of the season.

Both have had limited first-team opportunities and will not have their contracts renewed.

Right-arm seamer Whelan, 25, who joined from Middlesex in 2008, has played 20 first-class games for Worcestershire, claiming 33 wickets.

Left-handed batsman Wheeldon, 22, a product of Worcestershire's academy, made his senior debut against Yorkshire in April 2009 but has featured little since.

Director of cricket Steve Rhodes said: "Chris has struggled with an injury since the start of the season and has not been able to perform at the levels both he and the club would expect.

“Chris hopes that a winter focusing on rehabilitation will help him regain both form and fitness to be able to further progress his career in first-class cricket."

Rhodes added: "David made a promising start with the club, and hit his highest first-class score of 87 not out against Somerset CCC in September 2009.

“However, David has since struggled to find consistent form, and by letting him know of this decision early, he will have the opportunity to speak to other counties before the 2011 season comes to an end.

“We wish David every success in his attempt to progress his first-class career."