Fast bowler Kane Richardson has withdrawn from his Vitality Blast spell at Derbyshire following his selection in the Australia World Cup squad.

The 28-year-old, who was due to join up with Derbyshire in July, requested to be released from his contract in order to manage his workload this summer.

The Club is now assessing a number of options for an overseas replacement, led by Head of Cricket Dave Houghton, Twenty20 Head Coach Dominic Cork and captain, Billy Godleman.

Houghton said: “We’re disappointed to lose Kane [Richardson], but we’re progressing nicely in finding a new overseas bowler.

 “There are several players available to us, but we won’t jump at the first option. We’ve got a talented squad here and we need a player who can complement our side.

 “The team have made a good start to the season and there’s a great attitude within the group. It’s a hungry squad who’ve brought a great atmosphere to training.

 “We’ll continue working hard and an international-level bowler coming in can only help our progress.”