Error reading next value of sequence from database

I have created sequence object in MS SQL database and I am trying to use it through 'Add Sequence' step in Kettle.
I am able to get the next value for the sequence directly in the database. But when I am facing the below error while trying to fetch the sequence value from Kettle.
I have checked/tested the DB connection to the server [Used Connection Type: MS SQL Server and Access: Native (JDBC)] and the user credentials. Everything seems correct.

Error:

2014/11/14 14:54:56 - Add sequence[itemv].0 - ERROR (version 4.4.3-GA from 2014/11/14 10:33:52.022) : Because of an error, this step can't continue:
2014/11/14 14:54:56 - Add sequence[itemv].0 - ERROR (version 4.4.3-GA from 2014/11/14 10:33:52.022) : Error reading next value of sequence[item_seq] from database
2014/11/14 14:54:56 - Add sequence[itemv].0 - ERROR (version 4.4.3-GA from 2014/11/14 10:33:52.022) :
2014/11/14 14:54:56 - Add sequence[itemv].0 - ERROR (version 4.4.3-GA from 2014/11/14 10:33:52.022) : Unable to get next value for sequence : item_seq
2014/11/14 14:54:56 - Add sequence[itemv].0 - ERROR (version 4.4.3-GA from 2014/11/14 10:33:52.022) : The SQL statement must not be null or empty.



I have searched the entire forum and didn't find any solution. Any help would be appreciable.