Harvey was man of the match as Gloucs won the C&G Trophy

Harvey has been a key member of a side that has won six one-day titles since his arrival in 1999.

He was the man of the match as Gloucestershire clinched this year's C&G Trophy with victory in last month's final at Lord's.

Report: Gloucs lift C&G Trophy

But the 31-year old hinted after that triumph he would not return in 2004, saying: "If the club wants to go in a different direction, that's fine. I have no idea if I'll be back."

In a club statement on Monday he added: "I do wish to take time to consider my future over the autumn and winter and may well take a break next summer.

"Should I decide to play county cricket next season then I do feel I need a fresh challenge."

We made Ian the best offer we could Tom Richardson Gloucestershire chief executive

Gloucestershire could still be promoted to Division One of the County Championship for the first time with victory this week.

But Harvey's departure will be the third blow suffered by the club as it prepares for next year.

Coach John Bracewell will take over at the helm of his native New Zealand in November after five years at the club and South Africa star Jonty Rhodes has decided not to return after a single year.

"We made Ian the best offer we could and we are extremely disappointed that he will not be continuing with us," said Gloucestershire chief executive Tom Richardson.

"However, being an all-rounder all year round is extremely demanding and also we do understand if he needs the impetus of a new challenge.

"He has played magnificently for us on numerous occasions and we are extremely grateful to him for all he has done for the club."