Mushtaq released by Sussex

Mushtaq Ahmed has been released by Sussex so that the 38-year-old can take up a more central role within the England coaching set-up.

Spin coach to spend more time with England

Mushtaq Ahmed has been released by Sussex so that the 38-year-old can take up a more central role within the England coaching set-up. The former Pakistan leg-spinner was contracted to coach 40 days at the club after he agreed to assist bowling coach Otis Gibson with the national side. But while Mushtaq will still be based in Sussex and spend some time with the county, professional cricket manager Mark Robinson felt that allowing him free rein with England was the right thing to do. "We are pleased to help out England," he said. "This is a fantastic opportunity for Mushtaq, but also for England to have a man of his experience and knowledge working full-time. "If Sussex can do anything that helps England's chances of winning the Ashes, we are more than happy to oblige." Mushtaq is set to play a key role for England this summer, with spinners Graeme Swann and Monty Panesar expected to be important players during the Ashes series.