Hogg retires due to back problem

Less than 12 months after helping Lancashire back into Division One and being named the club's Player of the Year, Kyle Hogg has been forced to retire by a severe back injury. The 31-year-old, a grandson of West Indies spinner Sonny Ramadhin, made his Lancashire debut in 2001 and took more than 400 wickets to go with almost 4000 runs in all formats.

In 2011, when Lancashire won their first outright title in 77 years, Hogg claimed 50 wickets at 18.80, form he rediscovered last season when picking up 60 at 18.41 as part of a formidable new-ball partnership with Glen Chapple.

Hogg signed for Lancashire on the same day as James Anderson and, such was his promise, some joked that he was the player England meant to call up when Anderson made his ODI debut in 2002-03. The furthest he got was a place in England's Academy but he developed into a useful swing-bowling allrounder at domestic level.

"I would like to thank everybody at Lancashire County Cricket Club for the support they have shown me over the years - the coaches, staff, team-mates, members and supporters have all had a major influence on my career," Hogg said. "I have loved every moment of my time at such a fantastic cricket club. I have some great memories, such as being part of the squad that won the County Championship title in 2011, and I have played in some memorable games alongside some outstanding players.

"The news about the severity of my back condition came as a shock and I am faced with no alternative but to hang up my boots. I will always be a fan of Lancashire - it's in my blood - and I wish them every success for the future."

Hogg played for MCC in the Champion County game but injury kept him out of the start of Lancashire's season, with the club struggling on their return to the top tier. He managed to play in eight Championship fixtures, taking 21 wickets, but since July has only featured in one Royal London Cup fixture.

Lancashire's director of cricket, Mike Watkinson, said: "Kyle has made an outstanding contribution to Lancashire County Cricket Club during his career with us. He is a product of the local leagues and came through our development system, showing promise from an early age. As well as being such a talented cricketer he is a top bloke and totally committed to the club which is typified by his work as a Foundation Ambassador. It's very sad that he has been forced to retire at the peak of his career and we wish him all the best for the future."