Veteran Hoggard shown the door by Yorkshire

London:

Former England international Matthew Hoggard is looking for a new club after Yorkshire decided not to renew the long-serving bowler's contract.

The 32-year-old Hoggard, who played a key role in England's 2005 Ashes victory but was overlooked for this year's triumph against Australia, said the decision was prompted by financial problems at the northern club.

"They have got a new stand being built, they have just re-laid the outfield, money is tight and obviously being one of the bigger earners at the club they have decided I'm a person they can do without," Hoggard said on Monday in an interview with the BBC.

Yorkshire acknowledged that the cost of developing young players had played a part in its decision but blamed Hoggard's predicament on his refusal to accept a new contract at the start of last season, which he finished as the club's leading wicket-taker with 46 at an average of 32.

"An extremely competitive two-year contract, with the option of a third year based on performance ... would have retained his position as one of the highest earners at the county," Yorkshire said in a statement. "Matthew turned that contract offer down as he wanted a higher salary and a longer contract."

Hoggard played the last of his 67 internationals in Hamilton against New Zealand in March 2008, winding up on 248 wickets at 30.50.

But he still enjoyed a good season to end his 14-year stint with Yorkshire with 668 wickets in 195 first-class matches.

"He always gave 100 percent and his presence in the team has dug us out of a hole on more than one occasion," director of cricket Martin Moxon said. "I know he will continue to give his all and I wish him every success in the future."

He has never played for another club and was hoping to be made team captain when he was released by chief executive Stewart Regan and Moxon.

"I was called into a meeting with Stewart Regan and Martin Moxon and told over a cup of coffee I was being sacked," Hoggard said. "We had started talks about being captain. It went from being interested in being captain to: 'I'm sorry we're not renewing your contract.'"

Yorkshire denied it had ever got as far as offering Hoggard the captaincy.

Hoggard told BBC Radio 5 he was aggrieved that he was not given the chance to say farewell to fans and he is now open to the idea of playing against Yorkshire.

"I'm looking for a job," Hoggard said. "I'm still fit. I didn't miss any games last year through injury. I'm the leading wicket-taker. I've got a lot to offer.

"My experience is second to none in the county championship."