Martin Saggers announces retirement

Former England swing bowler Martin Saggers has announced his retirement after picking up a serious knee injury in August.

Saggers, 37, had his greatest success at Kent, who he joined after three unrewarding seasons at Durham. He moved the ball at a lively pace and soon established himself in the side. In 2002 he was joint top wicket-taker in England (83) and in 2003-04 was drafted into the England squad in Bangladesh as injury cover for Andrew Flintoff. He made his debut in the second Test at Chittagong, played twice more against New Zealand in early 2004, against whom he claimed a wicket with his first ball in home Tests, and then faded from the scene with seven wickets to his name.

"I've had 11 great seasons [at Kent]," Saggers said. "I've realised many of my dreams and it was a pleasure to play for both Kent and England. I played with a number of talented players throughout my career and I would like to thank all of my colleagues, past and present, for making it so much fun. It's disappointing to have to retire but I leave the playing game with many happy memories and now look forward to my future plans within the game."

"It's always sad when a player comes to the end of a career," chairman of cricket, Graham Johnson, added. "We owe Martin a great deal, especially during a period when he was our seam attack. Quite rightly, on the basis of this success, he received recognition at International level. Always enthusiastic and positive during his career, he will carry these qualities into his plans for what follows after cricket."

Saggers played 119 first-class matches, taking 415 wickets at 25.33, with his career best 7 for 79 coming for Kent against Durham at Riverside in 2000.