Gary Ballance can’t play with another team next summer as part of his contractual agreement (Picture: Getty Images)

Former England batter Gary Ballance has praised the support he has received from Yorkshire, despite agreeing his departure from the county in search of a ‘fresh start’.

Ballance has had his playing career derailed having admitted to using racially discriminatory language to former team-mate Azeem Rafiq and subsequent struggles with his mental health.

Yorkshire have accepted the 33-year-old’s request to have the final two years of his contract cancelled on the understanding he does not play for another county next summer.

‘It’s been a privilege to play for this great club,’ said Ballance, who has an England and Wales Cricket Board disciplinary charge hanging over him relating to Rafiq’s allegations.

‘The support Yorkshire has given me off the pitch over the past year has been fantastic but I hope my decision will mean my career can have a fresh start.’

Yorkshire managing director Darren Gough said: ‘The most important thing for him is to get better and play again.’

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The 33-year-old wanted to cancel his contract.