The Surrey and England fast bowler Chris Tremlett has announced his retirement from all forms of cricket.
Tremlett made only 12 Test appearances for England, but was a cornerstone of England’s famous 2010-11 series success in Australia, where he took 17 wickets in three Tests.
The 33-year-old, who took 459 wickets in a 15-year first-class career, made his announcement on Surrey’s official website on Friday.
“After 16 enjoyable years in a game that has given me so much I feel that now is the right moment to call time on my playing career,” Tremlett said.
“I have been extremely fortunate to have enjoyed such a fantastic and memorable career and lucky enough to play with and against some of the best players in the world. Wearing the Three Lions was the pinnacle and I enjoyed every minute of the challenge, experience and ultimately the success that the team had while playing for England.
“Unfortunately injury has hampered me throughout my career and now plays the leading role in my decision to retire. My body, and back in particular, can no longer withstand the vigour of performing at the level required to play professional cricket and after taking specialist advice, this latest injury means that I will not be able to carry on.
“I have always tried to give 100% commitment and effort whenever I have played but no longer feel that this is possible.”
The Surrey director of cricket, Alec Stewart, said: “[Tremlett] has been a valued and popular member of the playing staff throughout his time with us. On behalf of everyone at the club I would like to thank him for his efforts and contributions both with Surrey and England.”
Tremlett’s last Test appearance came in the first Ashes Test of the 2013-14 series, as Australia thrashed England in Brisbane. The fast bowler recently spoke out in defence of Kevin Pietersen, claiming his Surrey team-mate had “done nothing wrong but be honest”, while also staking his own claim for a Test recall.
“I’ve got experience at that level so if I’m bowling well and come June I’ve got 40 wickets, then hopefully I’ll be knocking on the door ... I haven’t given up and hopefully England haven’t given up on me,” Tremlett said in March this year.
