Ryan Sidebottom Announces International Retirement

20 September 2010

Ryan Sidebottom bowls during his final appearance in an England shirt

©REUTERS/Philip Brown (BRITAIN - Tags: SPORT CRICKET) Picture Supplied by Action Images

Left-arm fast bowler Ryan Sidebottom has announced his immediate retirement from international cricket, ending a career that began with a Test debut against Pakistan in 2001.

Sidebottom had to wait more than six years for his second cap, when he was recalled by new coach Peter Moores, going on to play 22 Tests, 25 One-Day Internationals and 18 Twenty20 Internationals for his country.

He was part of the side that won the 2010 ICC World Twenty20 in the Caribbean and took a Test hat-trick against New Zealand in Napier in 2008.

"I have had a truly fantastic period of my life with England but now it is time to hand over the ball to those a little younger. If I look back on my international career I have achieved more than I could ever have dreamed," Sidebottom said.

"Winning the ICC World Twenty20 in the West Indies, my Test debut at Lord's, a Test hat-trick against New Zealand, plus a man of the series award are just a few of the highlights which spring to mind.

"I have been fortunate enough to live the dream and I would like to take this opportunity to thank everyone who has helped me so much throughout my career.

"It has been a fantastic time but I have no doubts that now is the right time to announce my retirement."

Andy Flower, England team director, added:

"Ryan Sidebottom has been an important member of the squad in recent years and has excelled in the shorter formats of the game, particularly Twenty20 cricket. His contributions in the West Indies were instrumental in England winning our very first global title and on behalf of the team I'd like to thank Ryan for the enthusiasm and commitment he has shown when playing for England and wish him all the very best for the remainder of his career."

Sidebottom took 79 Test wickets, 29 wickets in ODIs and 23 in Twenty20 Internationals and the 32-year-old is currently out of contract having not been offered a new deal by Nottinghamshire in the close season.

Nottinghamshire have confirmed that he will not be remaining with them in 2011 and that Sidebottom intends to pursue an Indian Premier League contract.

His last contribution to Nottinghamshire was helping them clinch the 2010 County Championship while his last appearance in an England shirt was in the Twenty20 International against Pakistan at Cardiff on 7th September.

Sidebottom was capped by Yorkshire in 2000 and Nottinghamshire in 2004.

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