Taylor was part of the 2009 FP Trophy winning squad

Hampshire have decided to release fast bowler Billy Taylor after six seasons at the Rose Bowl.

The 32-year-old made his first-class debut in 1999 at Sussex before moving to his native Hampshire in 2004.

In his 54 first-class games he took 136 wickets with an average of 33.34 and a career best of 6-32 against Middlesex.

Taylor told the club's website: "I will miss the fans singing my name and giving me such a warm welcome on and off the field."

Taylor agreed a one-day contract for the second season running in October after finishing as the highest wicket-taker in the 2008 Pro40 League.

Hampshire chairman Rod Bransgrove added: "Billy has been a real crowd favourite and I know he will be missed by many.

"However, together with Giles White, we have decided that our bowling focus lies elsewhere and we have agreed with Billy that now is the right time to part ways."

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