By Sun Journal Staff

The NASCAR career of Ricky Craven struck another pothole on Friday.

Roush Racing announced that it will part ways with the Maine driver at the conclusion of the 2005 season. Craven is currently in his first season driving for team owner Jack Roush in the NASCAR Craftsman Truck Series.

“I want to thank Jack Roush for the opportunity he has given me to drive for him in the Craftsman Truck Series this year,” Craven said in a statement released by Roush Racing. “Roush Racing is an incredible organization and I have the utmost respect for everyone there. I have also truly enjoyed racing in the truck series. The competition is outstanding and I’ve had a lot of fun this season.”

The news comes two days after Craven finished 32nd at Bristol.

Craven, 39, was unavailable for comment on Friday. His plans for the 2006 racing season are unclear.

After a strong start, which saw Craven challenging for the points lead, Craven’s truck season has spiraled out of control. His first four races resulted in three top-four finishes, including a runner-up effort at Martinsville. Craven placed in the top 10 in seven of his first eight races.

But after two disappointing efforts – 33rd at Michigan and 21st at Milwaukee – Roush reshuffled his two truck teams, swapping Craven’s crew chief, engineer and truck chief with that of rookie Todd Kluever in early July.

Kluever responded by placing second in his first race with former Craven crew chief Mike Beam and has recorded five top 10 finishes the six races since the change. Craven, meanwhile, has not finished better than 13th and has tumbled to 14th in the points standing. His last four races have resulted in finishes of 27th, 25th, 24th and 32nd.

The 1995 Nextel Cup Rookie of the Year, Craven has won a pair of Nextel Cup races and three poles while driving the No. 32 Tide car for PPI Motorsports. Craven and PPI severed the 3-year relationship last summer.

During his time with PPI, Craven was the only driver from a single-car team to win a race since 2001.

“Ricky’s experience, talent and professionalism have benefited our entire truck operation this year,” Jack Roush said in a statement. “He has helped our crew chiefs, managers and engineers as well as serving as a mentor to rookie Todd Kluever. We wish Ricky the best of luck in his pursuit of other professional racing opportunities for 2006.”