Northamptonshire opener Emilio Gay has decided to decline a new contract offer, opting to leave the club at the end of the season to further his international cricket aspirations.
The 24-year-old left-hander from Bedford, who debuted against Gloucestershire in 2019, has amassed 2,786 first-class runs in 47 matches for Northants, the match marking the county's last promotion. Additionally, he has scored 689 runs in 26 List A games and 290 runs in 13 T20 Blast appearances.
"It is unfortunate that Emilio’s future isn’t with us, but he is very ambitious and feels that a fresh challenge will best support his goal of playing international cricket," remarked Northants head coach John Sadler. He praised Gay's work ethic and rapid development, emphasising their early belief in his potential as a high-class batsman.
Gay has achieved six centuries in first-class cricket, with his highest score being 261.
Reflecting on his time with Northants, Gay expressed gratitude, saying, "They enabled me to fulfil my childhood dream of becoming a professional cricket player. Over the last decade, many people have helped me progress, and Northants will always hold a special place in my heart."
Northants are second bottom in Division Two of the County Championship with five games remaining when the competition resumes in late August. They have also lost their first three matches in the One-Day Cup but finished as runners-up in their T20 Blast group, securing a home quarter-final against Somerset on 5 September.