Warren Hegg retires from first-class cricket

Warren Hegg retires from first-class cricket © Cricinfo Ltd

It has been announced this afternoon that Warren Hegg, the Lancashire and England wicketkeeper, has retired from first-class cricket. Following the injury to his hand in last week's championship match against Essex at Chelmsford, Hegg is unable to take part in the final two fixtures of the season for his county.

He had announced his intention to retire in May, but had hoped he would play a full season with Lancashire. Speaking from Old Trafford this afternoon, Hegg, 37, said: "I'm extremely disappointed not to be playing at Old Trafford again. I'd always hoped that my last game would be at Old Trafford, but it's not to be. I can't complain however, I've had a relatively injury free career and getting an injury is an occupational hazard. You have to accept it, and move on. I've been so lucky, enjoyed a great career and leave with some fantastic memories."

Hegg played two Tests for England, both against Australia, on the 1998-99 tour; he made his debut for Lancashire in 1986. Both his batting and wicketkeeping have always been consistent, and he was appointed captain of Lancashire in 2002, taking his side to third place (2002) and second place (2003) in Division One of the championship. In 348 matches, he scored 11,302 runs at 27.90.

Jack Simmons, Lancashire's chairman, said: "I am greatly saddened Warren has not had the opportunity to break George Duckworth's wicket keeping record of 925 dismissals; falling 6 short of the total. However injury is one of the things you put up with and part and parcel of the game.

"Warren has been an exemplary professional and a great ambassador for Lancashire County Cricket Club and cricket in general. It is a shame he can't finish his career at Old Trafford. He is always welcome at Old Trafford and the Club would like to place on record its thanks for his loyal service to the county and wishes him all the best his future career."