Saggers forced to call it a day

Martin Saggers took 415 wickets at 25 in his 119 first-class appearances for Kent

Kent and former England seamer Martin Saggers has announced his retirement after he failed to recover from a serious knee injury sustained last month.

The 37-year-old, who won three Test caps, has had limited opportunities in Kent’s first team this season - appearing just four times in the LV= County Championship and once in the Friends Provident Trophy.

2009 is Saggers’ 11th seasons with Kent for whom he played in 119 first-class matches, taking 415 wickets at an average of 25. His best figures were 7-79 against Durham at the Riverside in 2000.

His Test debut came against Bangladesh in 2003 and he took a wicket with his first international delivery in England, at Headingley, in the first of two Tests he played against New Zealand in 2004.

Saggers, who joined Kent from Durham, said: "I've had 11 great seasons. 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."

Kent chairman Graham Johnson added: "It is always sad when a player comes to the end of a career. Kent owes 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. I hope supporters continue to back his well earned benefit and we look forward to continuing to see him around the club."