LONDON: England star wicket-keeper cum batsman Matt Prior has announced his retirement from international cricket after conceding defeat in his battle with a longstanding achilles injury.
The 33-year-old played 79 Tests and was part of three Ashes-winning teams, underwent surgery on the problem last September, and while no return date was set for his rehabilitation.
Prior played his last match at the Lord’s where he was on losing side against India last July.
“Today is a very sad day for me as I am forced to announce my retirement from the game I love,” said Prior. “I had been hoping and expecting to be fit for the start of the 2015 season. Unfortunately, this has proved impossible, and I have now had to reach this decision.
“I feel honoured to have played for Sussex and England as many times as I have and shared so many great times with both teams. I also feel privileged to have been involved in an era of such success for English cricket.
“I would like to thank my family, team-mates, coaches and the people behind the scenes that have supported me throughout the years. I have created friendships that will last forever. It would also be remiss of me not to thank the fantastic support I have had from cricket fans both at home and abroad.”
Prior scored 4,099 runs and 265 dismissals in Test cricket since his debut against West Indies in 2007, having been an integral part of the team that rose to No1 in the rankings under captain Andrew Strauss in 2011.
