Beth Morgan Retires From International Cricket

Beth Morgan Retires From International Cricket

Beth Morgan, here in action during the 2009 ICC World Twenty20 semi-final against Australia, has announced her retirement from international cricket.

©REUTERS / Action Images

Double World Cup winner Beth Morgan has announced her retirement from international cricket following the recurrence of a shoulder injury.

Morgan, who played seven Tests, 72 One-Day Internationals and 28 Twenty20 Internationals, will continue to play for Middlesex despite calling time on her England career.

Morgan helped England win both the 50-over World Cup and the ICC Women's World Twenty20 in 2009, playing her part with an unbeaten 46 in a partnership worth 122 with Claire Taylor during the semi-final against Australia.

She made her debut against the Netherlands in the European Championships of 1999 and made her Test debut in 2005, when England regained the Ashes.

She played her part four years later when England drew the one-off Test in Worcester to hold on to the Ashes.

"I have decided it is the right time for me to retire from International cricket and the England squad," Morgan said. "This was a very tough decision made after the recurrence of a shoulder injury.

"I have thoroughly enjoyed every moment of my time with the England squad and would like to take this opportunity to thank everyone who has supported me throughout my career.

"It has been an honour to play in some truly great teams, alongside some of the best players in the world, and I feel privileged to have had the chance to work with so many outstanding coaches and support staff.  I am incredibly proud to have had the opportunity to represent my country and take with me many wonderful memories.

"I now look forward to giving back some of that experience to Middlesex and Finchley during the coming domestic seasons as they have played such a huge part in my cricket development over the years.  I would also like to wish the England team all the best in their defence of the world cup title in India in February."

Paying tribute to Morgan, former team-mate, captain and now Head of England Women's Cricket, Clare Connor added:

"Beth has been an exceptional member of the England squad, playing her part in the two World Cup wins of 2009 as well as the victorious Ashes campaigns of 2005 and 2008.

"Beth has embodied the very best values throughout her ten year international career and those values have made her a highly respected team member. 

"At no stage could anybody have asked for more than Beth has given.  She will be missed by all those involved in the England team, players and staff in equal measure, and we wish her every success and happiness in the future."

Fellow England players react on Twitter:

Congratulations to Beth Morgan on a wonderful career. She is the epitome of a team player and a great person who we will all miss #oval09

— Charlotte Edwards (@Lottie2323) January 15, 2013

Congrats beth morgan on a great career. I'll never forget your innings at lords to win the t20 semi in 2009! #inspiring bit.ly/106jeG5

— Tammy Beaumont (@Tammy_Beaumont) January 15, 2013

Without a doubt the most selfless player in the world of cricket. Beth Morgan can be proud of all that she achieved ”

— Isa Guha (@isaguha) January 15, 2013

“@ecb_cricket: Beth Morgan retires from international cricket bit.ly/106jeG5” - Congrats on a great career Beth. You gave 110% #legend

— Ebony Rainford-Brent (@Ebz_1983) January 15, 2013

© Cricket World 2013