No return for Giddins

Sussex will not be re-registering Ed Giddins after he has served his 20-month ban for cocaine use.

A statement issued by the county yesterday said: "Whilst the decision may appear harsh... we believe it to be important that a message is received loud and clear that the use of drugs in any walk of life, but particularly in sport, is wrong and will not be tolerated.

"The committee came to the conclusion that it would be in the best interests of the club and the player if a clean break was made."

The secretary, Nigel Bett, added: "There weren't too many tears shed when the other players were told. Ed is a quality cricketer but it's a huge disappointment to the club that one of its players has been found guilty of taking cocaine."