GEMAAL Hussain will be leaving the County Ground at the end of this season after Somerset County Cricket announced that they would not be renewing his contract.

The 29-year-old paceman joined the county for the 2011 season on a three year contract after enjoying considerable success with Gloucestershire the previous summer.

Hussain first played for Somerset in the Caribbean T20 in January 2011 and made his Championship debut later that season during which he claimed a career best 6-33 against Worcestershire and scored 42 against Lancashire at Liverpool.

In 2012 injury restricted his appearances but he returned to the side to take 5-48 in a thrilling victory over Warwickshire.

This season Hussain appeared in two Championship matches in which he claimed five wickets with a best of 3-99.

Director of Cricket Dave Nosworthy said: "I would like to take this opportunity to thank Gemaal for his service to the Club over the last three seasons.

"He has been a passionate member of the squad and has bowled key spells at key times.

“In fairness it can be said that he did not fulfil his true potential while at Somerset, but I hope that wherever he may now choose to continue his career - that it will flourish and that he will fulfil that potential we all know he has."

Hussain said: “I would like to express my thanks to all those who have supported me at Somerset CCC.

“Although my time here has been blighted with injury and inconsistent performance, I have enjoyed playing for such a special team and for a well supported club.

“I have had some very proud moments and will always cherish the two five-for's at the County Ground including a career best, as well as my figures of 8-9 for the Seconds this year.”