ESSEX Eagles have announced Wahab Riaz's spell with the club has come to a premature end after he was called up early to a Pakistan training squad ahead of their upcoming Test series against England.

Having joined The Eagles at the beginning of the T20 Blast campaign, Riaz was scheduled to play the first seven matches but his time with the club has finished after just five matches. He took four wickets in five matches.

"It is a shame Wahab's spell has been cut short," said Head Coach Chris Silverwood. "Obviously we understand that his international commitments come first and that is the risk you take when signing international quality players.

"We thank Wahab for his efforts and his commitment to the club during his spell."

The Pakistan international does have the option to return to the club should Chris Silverwood's men reach Finals Day, although the Eagles need a much better second half of the season as they currently sit rock bottom of the southern division ahead of this weekend's double-header.