Essex have confirmed that they have released South African fast bowler Andre Nel ahead of schedule.

Nel was supposed to make his final appearance for the Eagles in Sunday's Friends Provident Trophy (FPT) game against Middlesex Crusaders before heading to the Indian Premier League.

However the 30-year-old will now be available to play for the Mumbai Indians on Sunday after leaving Essex following the heavy defeat to Kent on Friday.

Nel told the club's official website: "I would like to thank Essex County Cricket Club in granting my request to end my time with them early, in order to take up a contract with the Mumbai Indians.

"As always, I have enjoyed my stay with Essex enormously and the excellent way I continue to be treated by the club bodes well for our future relationship should I get another chance to return."