Dawood scored 326 runs and took 34 catches in the 2005 Championship

The 29-year-old, the first British Asian to play in the Championship for the county, returned to Headingley in 2004 after spells at three other clubs.

Director of Cricket Davis Byas said that despite his commitment and hard work, Dawood had not managed the volume of runs and dismissals they wanted.

Byas wants to sign a new keeper and an overseas fast bowler for next summer.

He told the Yokrhsire Post newspaper that releasing Dawood was a "tough call", adding: "You could not wish to have a better bloke around the dressing room."

Yorkshire's other keeper, Simon Guy, has been retained despite playing four Championship games to Dawood's 12 during the recent season but has no guarantee of being first-choice in 2006.

Seam bowler David Lucas and batsman Chris Taylor have also left Headingley and Byas has confirmed that Australian all-rounder Ian Harvey will not be returning.

Former Australia batsman Darren Lehmann is, however, expected to return to the club as one of their overseas players.