Kabir Ali: Lancashire release former England pace bowler

Kabir Ali featured in only seven County Championship matches for Lancashire during his time at the club

Lancashire have released paceman Kabir Ali after two seasons at Old Trafford.

Kabir joined the club from Hampshire in 2012, having begun his career at Worcestershire where he spent 11 years.

He took 17 Championship wickets in seven games last summer, but suffered a shoulder injury at the end of the season which requires surgery.

"My injury came at the wrong time and I will assess my situation after my rehabilitation in six months' time," the 33-year-old said.

Kabir is the cousin of current England all-rounder Moeen Ali and won a solitary Test cap in his own right in 2003, taking five wickets against South Africa, and also played 14 one-day internationals.

"The injury came at a really unfortunate time for him and we would all like to thank him for his contribution," Lancashire's new cricket director and head coach Ashley Giles said.

"Whilst Kabir has only been with Lancashire for two years, he has made a significant contribution particularly in the one-day formats."