ROGER Sillence is the major casualty as Worcestershire release five players.

The all-rounder has not been offered a new deal at the County as the New Road outfit start their plans for the 2008 campaign.

Joining the former Gloucestershire man through the exit door is Scotland international Dewald Nel and Stuart Wedge, while Academy youngsters Will Gifford and Ed Foster have not been offered playing contracts at the club.

Thirty-year-old seamer Sillence has been at Worcestershire for two years following his release from Gloucestershire, but despite his best efforts he has struggled to hold down a regular place in the side.

Nel, who has just returned from South Africa after playing for Scotland at the ICC World Twenty20 tournament, is another player who has only been on the fringes at New Road, while Wedge has not featured this season.

"This is in many ways the hardest time of the year when we have to make some tough decisions which affect the future of individuals," said director of cricket Steve Rhodes.

"All have contributed in their own way to the club's progress over the last few years and we wish them well in their future career, whatever that direction might be.

"We continue to develop young talent through our Academy and I am always on the look-out for quality players from outside the County.

"I am very happy with our batting line-up but we do need to find a couple of high-quality seam bowlers."