Kadeer Ali, Snell, Woodman Make Gloucestershire Exits

Batsman Kadeer Ali, wicket-keeper Steven Snell and all-rounder Rob Woodman have left Gloucestershire, as the club continues to go through a rebuilding phase.

The trio follow fast bowlers Anthony Ireland, who has joiend Middlesex, Steve Kirby and Gemaal Hussain, who have both moved to Somerset, and batsman William Porterfield, who has made the switch to Warwickshire, out of Bristol.

Snell and Kadeer have been with the club since 2005 while Woodman switched from Somerset in 2008, but has had limited first-team opportunities.

“We have to make a number of changes to the balance of the squad and, whilst Steve Snell was an important part of the 2010 line-up, we envisage he would have very few opportunities next season," chief executive Tom Richardson told the club's official website.

"Knowing Steve wants to and deserves to be playing first team cricket, we agreed that it would be in everyone’s best interest if he were free to pursue his career at a new club.

“Kadeer has had few opportunities this season and, looking forward, we agreed that it would be best if he were able to seek first team cricket at a new county.

“Rob Woodman has had no opportunities this season and, as he also wishes to play first team cricket, we decided it was mutually beneficial for him to be able to pursue alternatives at other counties.

“Steve and Kadeer have spent six seasons with Gloucestershire, joining in 2005, while Rob signed for us in 2008. We would like to thank all three players for their efforts on behalf of the Club and wish them well for the future.”

© Cricket World 2010