Sussex today released wicketkeeper Nick Wilton to make way for younger blood.

The 22-year-old from Crowborough has been told he has no future at Hove because of the emergence of youngsters Matt Prior and Tim Ambrose, who have both played in the first team this season.

The county have deferred a decision on the future of batsmen Dominic Clapp, Jamie Carpenter and Will House, all of whom are out of contract.

But fast bowler Billy Taylor has been offered a new two-year contract while Paul Havell is to sign a one-year deal.

Coach Peter Moores, a former wicketkeeper himself, admitted the decision to release Wilton was taken 'with great sadness.'

He said: "The sad fact is that we can't have three keepers on the staff. Tim and Matt have done very well, they are two outstanding all-round talents and we have decided to go with them.

"The decision was taken with great sadness and we will do all we can to help Nick find a new county. He's only 22 and I think other counties will want to take a look at him."

The future of Clapp, Carpenter and House will be decided at the end of the season.

Added Moores: "To be fair to the guys we are going to take our time and give them an opportunity in the last two weeks of the season to impress."