The acrimonious dispute between Bradford-born batsman Anthony McGrath and Yorkshire now looks like going to the England and Wales Cricket Board's arbitration panel for an independent decision early next week.

It had been hoped that the Professional Cricketers' Association would be able to broker a deal to end the stalemate between the two parties, which has resulted in McGrath claiming his contract with the club has ended and Yorkshire insisting that it has not.

But the PCA's vice-president (legal affairs), Ian Smith, said that recent talks had stalled and although they were still trying to bring about an amicable settlement, both sides had become intractable and it was difficult to see a way forward.

"It now looks as if the dispute will have to go before the ECB arbitration panel and from what I am hearing the case could be heard early next week," said Smith.

"Time is moving on and the PCA would welcome an outcome as soon as possible."

Although Yorkshire still insist they would welcome a change of heart from McGrath, they seemed to be resigned to the fact that he will not be with them at the start of the new season. In the club's annual report sent out to members this week, McGrath's name is not listed among the playing staff.

Meanwhile, Yorkshire's management board are close to appointing a director of professional cricket with the list of 30 or so applicants now whittled down to three.

The board are expected to make their final decision in a day or two and reveal the name of their man next week.

Former South Africa fast bowler Allan Donald is one of those on the shortlist and he has said that he expects to be told whether he has landed the job today.

Others who have been said to be in the frame at some stage or other include South Africa's current coach Mickey Arthur, Pakistan coach Bob Woolmer and former Australia captain, Allan Border, as well as former Yorkshire players Chris Old and Jim Love.

Woolmer has since denied applying for the post but he has said he was approached last summer by Geoff Boycott who had asked if he was interested in joining Yorkshire.