ANTHONY McGRATH last night confirmed he would be quitting Yorkshire despite still having two years to run on his contract.
The former East Bierley batsman, who has been a big part of Yorkshire's set-up since turning professional 14 years ago, is known to be dissatisfied at the way the club is being run, which has led to several high-profile departures in the close season.
The loss of Darren Lehmann, Michael Lumb, the Chris Adams affair, David Byas and the sacking of McGrath's friend and first team coach Richard Blakey are all thought to be factors in the 31-year-old's decision to leave his native county.
However, Yorkshire's chief executive Stewart Regan and his management team are now in discussion with solicitors with a view to suing McGrath over a breach of contract.
Although yet to confirm it, McGrath is believed to be interested in a possible move to Lancashire.
"I am leaving as a result of my differences with Yorkshire that I have not been able to resolve and for no other reason," said McGrath.
"It is obviously very sad for me that I will not be playing for Yorkshire any more.
"I have been here since I was 11 years old, and the club will always be a huge part of my life, and I want to thank all those many people including, of course, my coaches, the supporters and members who have nurtured me and brought me on as a cricketer at this great club."
McGrath's announcement is just the latest in a list of mounting problems for Yorkshire, who have no director of cricket, no captain and few front-line batsmen except Younis Khan.
