ESSEX Cricket's Jesse Ryder has returned to New Zealand after it was mutually agreed his contract would come to an end early.

The Kiwi suffered a calf strain recently and has since been hampered by the injury.

And with only County Championship games left it was deemed in the best interests of both parties if Ryder returned to his home country early.

Having been with the club for the past three years, Ryder has made contributions throughout his time at The E.C.G both on and off the pitch.

Everyone at the club thanked Ryder for his services and wished him well for the future.