Killeen calls it a day

Neil Killeen has decided to bring an end to his 16-year playing career with Durham

Durham bowler Neil Killeen has announced his retirement from domestic cricket at the age of 34.

Killeen will make his final appearance in today’s Clydesdale Bank 40 clash against Kent, before taking up a coaching role with the north-east county.

The seamer made his debut for Durham in 1995 and has gone on to make 226 one-day appearances. He also appeared in over a hundred first-class matches and 45 Twenty20 games.

He was also part of the team that secured Durham’s first piece of silverware in 2007, when they beat Hampshire in the Friends Provident Trophy final at Lord’s.

He said: “I’ve had a wonderful career at Durham and enjoyed every minute of it.

“My absolute highlight has to be winning the Friends Provident Trophy at Lord’s, it was great seeing the hard work of so many people coming into fruition – it was a massive achievement for the team and that weekend is something I will always remember.

“It was a tough decision to call time on my career but I’m incredibly excited about the opportunities ahead of me especially those that will see me continue to work alongside some of the quality talent we have here at Durham.

“I’d like to say a huge thank you to all the players, staff and members for their support over the years.”

Durham head coach Geoff Cook added: “I’ve enjoyed watching Neil play cricket throughout his career and for him to retire as the leading wicket-taker for Durham in one-day cricket is certainly an accolade that is much deserved.

“He has worked extremely hard to give his best to the team and the club over the last 16 years and I’d like to wish him all the best with his future projects.”