London, July 24: India's opening batsman Virender Sehwag was today released by his county Leicestershire mid-way through his contract and is returning home for rest and treatment on his back injury. Sehwag's contract, reportedly worth 80,000 pounds, was terminated by mutual agreement after doctors advised at least six week's rest for the opener, a statement issued by the cricket club said.

"We have mutually agreed that his contract is terminated and this will enable us to seek a substitute overseas player for the remainder of the season," Leicestershire coach Phil Whitticase said in the statement. "We are very grateful to Virender for the consideration he has shown to the club and are naturally disappointed that he will not be available to us for the rest of the season."

Sehwag, who played six championship games in his debut county season scoring two centuries and totalling 478 runs at an average of 47.8, said he hoped to return to Leicestershire in future.

"I am disappointed that I will not be able to see out my contract with Leicestershire. I would like to express thanks to my teammates, supporters and club officials for making my short stay at Leicestershire a memorable and enjoyable one. "I will take back fond memories of my time here and I wish the team the best of luck. I hope Leicestershire will give me the opportunity to play for them at some stage in the future."

Bureau Report