Matthew Hoggard hangs up his boots

Mathew Hoggard appeals in a test match against New Zealand

According to Cricinfo, England pace bowler Matthew Hoggard has announced his retirement from all forms of cricket at the age of 36.

Hoggard played a key role in helping England in their 2005 Ashes triumph. He played 67 Tests for the Three Lions and bagged 248 wickets, becoming England’s eighth-highest wicket-taker in the process.

He announced the news courtesy of his twitter account:

Known for his swing bowling, Hoggard made use of the new ball to great effect. He was also a useful nightwatchman for England and was known for his ‘sound defensive techniques’.

“I want to thank all of my family, friends, my past opponents, and both Yorkshire and Leicestershire for the support and dedication that they have shown me over the course of my career,” Hoggard said. “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, he added.

It's been an amazing journey filled with some fantastic experiences shared with great people but time has come to hang the boots up !

— Matthew hoggard (@Hoggy602) September 11, 2013

I would like to thank everybody that has played a part in making it such an enjoyable career !I will remember you fondly !

— Matthew hoggard (@Hoggy602) September 11, 2013