England wicketkeeper Matt Prior has announced his retirement from all forms of professional cricket with immediate effect due to achilles injury.
The 33-year-old Sussex wicketkeeper has helped his nation to three glorious Ashes series victories between 2009 and 2013.
Prior has scored 4099 runs in 79 Tests matches at an average of 40.18 across a seven-year international spell.
Today is a sad day for me as I announce my retirement. I must thank all of you for all the support over the years. http://t.co/Pxb5UPTJgE
— Matt Prior (@MattPrior13) June 11, 2015
Prior, who played his last test against India at Lord’s 11 months ago, said: ”Today is a very sad day for me, as I am forced to announce my retirement from the game I love.
”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.”
Congrats @MattPrior13 on a brilliant Eng career. Sad he’s had to retire due to injury but should be proud of his achievements #keepersunion
— Alec Stewart (@StewieCricket) June 11, 2015
Congrats @MattPrior13 on a great career. Was a pleasure playing with you bud. Wish you all the best in the future endeavours!
— Ian Bell (@Ian_Bell) June 11, 2015
We may have had our differences, but I’d like to wish @MattPrior13 all the best for his future…we did play some v good cricket together!
— Kevin Pietersen (@KP24) June 11, 2015
@MattPrior13 congrats on a superb career pal,played the game with the right spirit ,hope your new career as successful as your cricket
— Darren Gough (@DGoughie) June 11, 2015
@MattPrior13 congrats on the career Matty!!!! Outstanding cricketer, great guy, go well!!! 😉
— Simon Jones MBE (@si610) June 11, 2015
Fantastic Career @MattPrior13….. https://t.co/1DgLDQbv9z
— Michael Vaughan (@MichaelVaughan) June 11, 2015