The absence of William Ingleby Jefferson leaves a big hole and not just on the scorecard. As Essex were beginning their triumphant Championship match against Surrey �.. a win that infused the county with confidence after their mis-shaped display on Twenty20 finals day �.. Jefferson was handing in his notice after six seasons.

It has been a frustrating season for Jefferson, who severed a tendon in his wrist by putting it through his bathroom window in late spring. His recovery was lengthy and he has been left frustrated by his lack of first-team chances since his comeback.

His contract expires on September 30, but he was told his services wouldn�..t be required for the rest of the season. �..We think it is in Will�..s best interest to make a clean break now so that he can fully investigate alternative cricket opportunities while the season is ongoing,�.� says the chief executive David East.

Nottinghamshire secured his services ahead of several interested counties. Jefferson, still only 26, averaged over 40 in first-class games for Essex, with 11 hundreds. In 2004 he struck six of them in stacking up 1,555 first-class runs. He was capped in 2002 and made his mark with a match-winning 165 not out against Nottinghamshire to earn Essex promotion to Division One in 2002.

Daniel Brigham, The Wisden Cricketer