Friday 14 November 2014 16:06, UK
Former England opener Nick Compton has departed Somerset by mutual agreement with immediate effect.
Compton says he wants to move to a county nearer London but he is yet to confirm who he will play for next.
Compton told Somerset’s website: "I have loved playing for Somerset, but I have decided to re-locate more permanently to my base in south-west London.
“I have always set myself the highest of professional standards, and I don't want to compromise myself or the club, going forward.
"I appreciate Somerset’s understanding of my wish to balance both my personal and professional life.
“The club will always have a special place in my heart and I owe Brian Rose a huge debt of gratitude for the privileged opportunity he gave me to become a Somerset cricketer, which in turn has enabled me to fulfil a number of cricketing goals.
"Thanks to everybody who has made me so welcome in the last five years. I have been part of some exceptional teams, experienced the warmth of Somerset's amazing supporters who make it such a great club to play for, and wish everybody connected with Somerset Cricket continued success."
Outstanding
Somerset Chief Executive Guy Lavender said: “We would like to acknowledge the contribution Nick has made to Somerset CCC during his five years with the club.
“He will be missed and we are disappointed he has decided to leave. He departs with our very best wishes for the future and with our thanks for his outstanding contributions on and off the field.”
Director of Cricket Matthew Maynard said: “I am sorry to see Nick depart as he is a quality cricketer but it is fundamentally important that he, or any player for that matter, wants to be here and is able to perform to the best of their ability; sadly this is not something Nick feels able to achieve at this time”.
South Africa-born Compton - grandson of the legendary Denis - started his professional career at Middlesex but, frustrated by a lack of first-team opportunities, he moved to Somerset before the 2010 season.
The move paid dividends - he scored prolifically, and earned a call-up to the England Test squad in 2012, touring India and then New Zealand. He lost his place the following year, with the likes of Michael Carberry and Sam Robson given opportunities at the top of the order since.
