Crawley - wants to go Photo CricInfo

John Crawley has asked Lancashire to release him with three years of his four-year contract remaining.

Crawley was recently replaced as captain after a poor season at Old Trafford. Lancashire's chief executive, Jim Cumbes, confirmed the England batsman's request.

"It's never good to have a disaffected player, especially one so early in his contract," Cumbes told The Daily Telegraph.

"These problems can be discussed and, I'm sure, worked out. It's sad and a great shame, because John came to Old Trafford as a young lad and has been with us all through his career."

Cumbes added that the club chairman Jack Simmons and his general committee would now discuss the matter further.

Crawley, 30, made his debut for Lancashire in 1990 and has earned 29 England caps. After the retirement of Michael Atherton he is the county's most senior player. He would be eligible for a benefit in 2003, which could raise as much as £350,000. The reasons for his decision are not yet known.

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