Instrumental in England’s victorious 2005 Ashes Series, one of the most popular figures in English cricket and a champion of the sport, Matthew Hoggard MBE has announced his retirement after an incredible 17 year career.
Leicestershire’s upcoming four day match against Hampshire will be the cricketer’s last professional game and his retirement will formally take effect from the 21st September.
Hoggard said: “I want to thank all of my family, friends, my past opponents, the PCA and both Yorkshire and Leicestershire County Cricket Clubs for the support and dedication that they have shown me over the course of my career. I have been inspired by so many different people and the late Phil Carrick is just one example of someone who supported me from the very beginning and I owe him a lot.
“Playing cricket professionally and, of course, playing as part of the national side is a dream that nearly every young boy growing up in Yorkshire shares. I feel truly honoured to have been given such incredible opportunities and I am grateful to everyone that I have worked alongside for the past 17 years.
“I want to thank my wife Sarah for the immense support she has shown me throughout my career. She has always been there for me and has continued to help me to do the very best that I can for my team, both on an international and county level.
“Nothing will ever replace the role that cricket has played in my life but I am looking forward to a new chapter and the chance to spend a little more time with my family. Cricket will continue to be hugely important to me and I wish Leicestershire the very best of luck for the future.”
The England cricketer played a hugely important role in the Ashes in 2005. 24 years since England had last emerged victorious after a clash with their Australian opponents, the win came at a crucial time for the sport.
Leicestershire Chief Executive Mike Siddall said “Everyone at Leicestershire wishes Matthew and his family the very best for the future following his retirement.
“He has had a massive influence at the Club during the four years he has been here, not least captaining the county to its third T20 Trophy win at Edgbaston in August 2011. His wicked sense of humour and Yorkshire wit will be missed by all.”
Hoggard is looking forward to his future, working both within and outside of cricket and continuing to build upon the many great experiences that he has already had as part of his impressive career.
James Buttler
As the editor of World Cricket Badger he is intent on building the website to give quality coverage of the domestic game around the world.
He is also the presenter of the Cricket Badger Radio Show on Radio Yorkshire every Tuesday evening between 7-9pm UK time.
James was the full-time Media Manager at Yorkshire County Cricket Club between 2007 and 2010.
James is a published author, a writer/video contributor to many cricket publications and a complete cricket badger!
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