Nicholson took 93 wickets for Surrey in all competitions

Australian paceman Matthew Nicholson has left Surrey by mutual consent.

The 33-year-old moved to The Oval before the 2007 season after spending the previous summer with Northants.

"Unfortunately, Matt's season this year has been lighted by illness, which has affected his performance," manager Alan Butcher told the club's website.

"However, he has never given anything less than 100% and leaves behind many friends in the dressing room, who will miss his positive attitude."

Nicholson took 93 wickets in all competitions for Surrey and was named Man of the Year at the end of the 2007 season, an award voted for by members of the first team squad.

He was also a useful contributor with the bat and made a career-best 133 in the home Championship game against Yorkshire in May.

His departure clears the way for Surrey to continue their attempt to sign Pakistan star Shoaib Akhtar for the remainder of the season.

He has yet to obtain a visa to enable him to work in Britain.