Harris had only played one match for Sussex (Getty)

Australian fast bowler Ryan Harris has terminated his contract with Sussex with immediate effect.

Sussex had signed the 28-year-old as a non-overseas player because he holds a UK passport, and he played in last week's friendly against MCC.

However, he was then withdrawn from the Championship game with Hampshire after reports emerged that he had signed for Queensland Bulls as a local player.

Regulations do not permit him to play in both countries as a local player.

Under England & Wales Cricket Board rules, he could only have played for Sussex if he had signed for Queensland as an overseas player.

Sussex chief executive Gus Mackay said: "This has been a very difficult decision for Ryan but the only decision he could make after it was announced on Wednesday that he had signed a three-year-contract with Queensland to play as a local player.

"Ryan is an exciting cricketer who we were looking forward to being part of our title defence.

"His departure will, however, give the opportunity to other players within our squad and in the meantime we will continue to search for a replacement."

Harris had taken 4-36 against the MCC in his only appearance for the county champions.