Former Black Caps bowler Daryl Tuffey has decided to play his cricket in Sydney, declining a contract with Auckland for the 2007-2008 season.
"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 gradecricket in Sydney at present," Tuffey said in a statement today.
A long-time stalwart of Northern Districts, Tuffey, 29, announced in June he was moving to Auckland.
"I do hope at some stage to return to New Zealand and if I do I would love to be part of the Auckland team."
Auckland Cricket chief executive Andrew Eade said Tuffey had been offered a contract in July and a number of discussions had been conducted since.
"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," Eade said.
"We are disappointed to lose his services but wish him well for the future."
Tuffey was a member of the New Zealand team at the World Cup in the West Indies this year.
He played in just one game before being replaced by Chris Martin because of an arm injury.
Tuffey played the last of his 22 tests three years ago, having taken 66 wickets at an average of 31.2.
His 80 one-day internationals have yielded 91 wickets at 32 runs apiece.
