Tuffey declines Auckland move

Auckland Cricket has announced that Daryl Tuffey had declined their offer of a domestic playing contract for the 2007/08 cricket season.

"We offered a contract to Daryl in July and there have been a number of discussions since that time," said Chief Executive Andrew Eade.

"Initial indications were positive but no formal contract was ever entered into and Daryl has now decided that he wishes to remain as a free agent. We are disappointed to lose his services but wish him well for the future."

Tuffey is currently playing grade cricket in Sydney and said "I was really looking forward to playing for Auckland but I've had to change plans for a number of reasons and I'm enjoying playing grade cricket in Sydney at present.

"I do hope at some stage to return to New Zealand and if I do I would love to be part of the State Auckland Aces team."

Auckland Cricket will shortly announce a new contracted player to take Tuffey's place.

Tuffey had played all his first-class cricket to date with State Northern Knights.