Surrey have cancelled the contract of overseas player Michael Neser due to the effects of the Covid-19 pandemic, becoming the first county to do so.

The Australia seamer was due to represent the club until the beginning of July, but with the English season delayed until May 28 at the earliest, and further postponements likely, a mutual decision was reached to terminate the agreement.

“Given the testing times we find ourselves in, I would like to thank Michael Neser and his management company for their total understanding of the current situation and full agreement of this decision,” said director of cricket Alec Stewart.

“The wider issues the sport is facing is paramount and it was refreshing to know Michael and his representatives are looking at the bigger picture in this sensible and responsible way.”