Worcestershire release left-arm spinner Shaaiq Choudhry

Worcestershire have released left-arm spinner Shaaiq Choudhry, whose current contract has expired.

Choudhry joined Worcestershire in 2010 but has been unable to earn a regular starting place in the team, with Saeed Ajmal and Moeen Ali the club's frontline spinners.

Choudhry has taken 33 wickets at an average of 36.03 and scored 629 runs at 22.46 in 22 first class matches during his career in addition to playing in 29 List 'A' and 24 T20 matches.

Worcestershire director of cricket Steve Rhodes said: "We really do wish Shaaiq all the best because he's put a lot of time in and we've put a lot of time in and sadly it hasn't worked out.

"He is a very good cricketer and I hope he finds somewhere to go and play his cricket because he will be a useful acquisition for somebody.

"Saeed Ajmal's signing meant that Shaaiq didn't play as much of the various formats as he would have liked to have done.

"But I really do think he is the type of cricketer someone might be interested in. He can bat, he can bowl and is a genuine all-rounder."

Choudhry said: "I've really enjoyed my time at Worcester and learnt a lot from people like Saeed Ajmal and Norman Gifford (spin bowling coach).

"Unfortunately opportunities have been limited, as during my six seasons there have been six spells with overseas spinners, which has made it tough for me to get game time.

"I would have loved to have played more and been given a run in all formats but unfortunately that hasn't been the case.

"Moving forward I'd like to thank the club, the supporters and all the players for making my time at the club an enjoyable one and I'd like to wish them all the very best in the future."