Gloveman Batty calls it a day

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Wicketkeeper Jonathan Batty has decided to hang up his gloves after 18 seasons in county cricket.

The 38-year-old made his final appearance for Gloucestershire in their two-wicket defeat to Leicestershire at Grace Road, having spent three years with the club.

Prior to that Batty enjoyed a successful 13-year association with Surrey, winning three County Championship titles, the NatWest Pro40 and the first edition of the Twenty20 Cup in 2003.

Batty said: "It's with great sadness that the moment has come for me to call time on my career.

Gloveman Jonathan Batty, right, has called time on his county cricket career after more than 13,000 runs and 992 dismissals

"I've had an amazing 18 years playing first-class cricket and living the dream. My mind is full of wonderful memories that will last forever.

"I'd like to thank Gloucestershire for the last three years. I hope I've been a positive influence and helped the side develop as they build towards a return to the top flight in the future.

"Finally, a huge thank you to everyone who has helped and supported me, both on and off the field, over the years."

Gloucestershire director of cricket John Bracewell said: "Jon has been a model professional in his time with us.

"His positive attitude on and off the field has been tremendous and he can leave the game with his head held high. He is the consummate team player."

Skipper Alex Gidman added: "Jon has never stopped putting in the required amount of effort during his time with us.

"His attitude has been great and he has contributed off the pitch as well as on it."

Batty made his first-class debut back in 1994 and scored over 9,500 runs at an average of 31.5, as well as contributing more than 3,500 runs in limited-overs cricket.

As a wicketkeeper he has achieved more than 650 first-class dismissals, as well as more than 300 in List A and t20 games. He captained Surrey in 2004.

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