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Yorks release Brophy and bring in Hodd

Jonny Bairstow is on England duty, and Andrew Hodd will act as his understudy at Yorkshire © Getty Images

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Yorkshire have released Gerard Brophy from the remainder of his contract and signed Andrew Hodd on loan from Sussex to act as wicketkeeper cover for Jonny Bairstow in the Championship.

Brophy, who has been at Yorkshire since 2006, was told that his contract would not be renewed for 2013 and is free to pursue fresh playing opportunities. He made 11 first-team appearances this season but Yorkshire will now give 22-year-old Dan Hodgson the gloves for CB40 cricket, with Hodd as back-up in the four-day competition.

"I'm disappointed to be leaving Yorkshire after seven great years," Brophy said. "I've had 20 years playing cricket and all good things must come to an end. I've always given my all for the White Rose and wish the club well in the future."

Martyn Moxon, Yorkshire's director of cricket, said: "I have thoroughly enjoyed working with Gerard since I returned to the club in 2007. He has been an excellent servant and a key member of the dressing room. He will be missed around the squad. I would like to record my appreciation for his professionalism and dedication to the Yorkshire cause over the last seven years and wish him every success in the future."

Hodd has not made an appearance for Sussex this season but has a first-class batting average of 29.07. The 28-year-old former England U-19 keeper could make his Yorkshire debut against Derbyshire this week, with Bairstow due to join England's squad for the third Test against South Africa.

"This is a great opportunity for Andrew to play some first-class cricket for a side challenging for promotion and all at Sussex wish him all the best," Sussex cricket manager Mark Robinson said. "We still have the option to recall him should anything happen but most importantly it is a chance for Andrew to play some first-team cricket."

© ESPN Sports Media Ltd.