LONDON, July 7: Dave Houghton, Derbyshire's director of cricket, is set to quit his post immediately though his contract with the county expires only at the end of 2007. Derbyshire chairman Don Amott said that the parting was amicable.

“I am obviously disappointed to be leaving because I have thoroughly enjoyed my time here but this is the best way forward for both the club and myself,” said Houghton. —Agencies