Afzaal and Dawson must now seek a fresh start elsewhere

Batsman Afzaal, who joined the club from Notts in 2004, has been linked with a move south to join Surrey.

But the future looks less promising for off-spinner Dawson, who was signed from Yorkshire last winter.

The 27-year-old, who has seven Test caps, has been troubled by injuries and only managed two appearances for Northants in the County Championship.

They have decided, however, to put their faith in youngsters Graeme White and Alex Wakely to provide spin bowling support for long-serving Jason Brown, when Monty Panesar is away on England duty.

Northants have offered a new two-year contract to Ireland World Cup wicket-keeper Niall O'Brien, who has attracted interest from Warwickshire.

He has had to compete with Riki Wessels for the keeper's spot this summer but underlined his value with an innings of 109 in last week's Championship win over Leicestershire.

Wessels, the son of former Northants coach Kepler, has already agreed a new two-year deal.

The club has also offered one-year contract extensions to seam bowlers David Wigley, Richard Logan and David Lucas