Kent release James Hockley

James Hockley, the 31-year-old right-hand batsman, has been released by Kent with immediate effect.

Hockley made his first-class debut in 1998 and enjoyed two spells with the club. However, in 30 first-class games his highest score was 82, and he made just one hundred for the club, against Warwickshire in the C&G Trophy in 2002.

Commenting on his departure, Kent team director, Paul Farbrace, said: "I would like to thank James for the contribution he has made to Kent cricket. He has been an excellent squad player and worked hard in his second attempt at county cricket, after a period out of the game. The time is now right for him to move on and concentrate on his teaching career."