Jacques Rudolph wrote a letter to Stewart Regan at The Yorkshire County Cricket Club and has asked that it be placed on the website to show his gratitude to everyone that has supported him during his time with the Club...

Dear Stewart

I'm sure you will agree with me when I say that I think we have made massive strides as a Club this season. A one-day semi-final and the prospect of winning the Championship was almost unheard of when I arrived in April this year. How far we have come!

As you know, our initial intention when you and I first spoke in early 2007 was to settle in England. However, over the last 18 months, Elna and I have found it increasingly difficult being apart from our family and this has re-affirmed our desire to return to our home country.

I have thoroughly enjoyed my four years at Yorkshire and hope I have given as much to the Club as they have given to me. My love for cricket is unquestionable; however it will always come second to the needs of my family. We believed Elna could also have a successful career here in England as a doctor who specialises in 'HIV' treatment. We have since found that pursuing a career back in Africa will be more valuable and rewarding for long term purposes. With this in mind, I believe that if we settled in England, I would be denying her this opportunity.

The combination of Elna's needs and the desire to be close to our family, has led us to the decision that continuing in England is no longer an option. Therefore I would kindly ask the Club to release me from the final year of my contract.

I am indebted to the Club and the ECB for allowing me the opportunity to live and play in England. I hope you will agree that the way I have conducted myself shows my love and passion for this prestigious Club. Over my four years I have seen the Club develop and grow and I will leave knowing the future is bright and in safe hands.

May I thank you again for all you have done for Elna and myself.

Kind regards

Yours sincerely

Jacques A Rudolph