KENT all rounder Justin Kemp has been released from his contract at the request of the United Cricket Board of South Africa.

Kemp will now return home to undertake a programme of rest and recuperation ahead of a busy international schedule leading up to the World Cup next year.

Big-hitting Kemp has been in awesome form for Kent so far this season and the news is a huge blow to the county.

Kent chairman of cricket Graham Johnson said: "We reluctantly accept the South African Board's overriding wish to ensure that Justin is properly prepared ahead of the forthcoming Sri Lank tour and the 2007 World Cup and are very sorry to see him go.

"His contribution for Kent this year has been outstanding and we wish him success on the international stage.

"This situation does highlight how difficult it is for counties to plan their playing resources to deliver to suppoerters' expectations."

Kemp added: "I have enjoyed every minute of my time with this club and hope I may be able to return some time in the future."

Kent must now decide how to replace Kemp and his fellow countryman Andrew Hall who has already been selected for South Africa's tour of Sri Lanka.

Dwayne Bravo, the West Indian all rounder, is set to join the club after his country's current series against India.