Sussex say they strongly refute any allegation of discrimination after a former player claimed his career path at the club was unfairly blocked.

Former Worcestershire and Surrey batsman Aneesh Kapil says he deserved more chances to impress with 1st or 2nd XI and toe earn a contract.

He says the fact he was deprived opportunities represents “a subtle yet profoundly damaging form of discrimination: covert discrimination in English Cricket.

“This insidious and often hidden bias not only impacts a person’s wellbeing but also has far reaching consequences on their livelihood.”

Kapil says stats made a strong case for him to be awarded a contract.

He wrote: “The club exploited me, displaying a complete disregard for my performances and the efforts I had dedicated towards becoming a professional cricketer.”

Kapil was critical of an ECB investigation and “utterly appalled” by the level of support he received from a PCA representative.

In a statement, the club said: “Sussex Cricket has fully cooperated with the ECB investigation regarding the allegations made by Aneesh Kapil. The Club strongly refutes any allegations of discrimination and will not comment any further at this time.”

Sussex chief executive Rob Andrew said: “We absolutely deny any allegation of discrimination.”