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