Former England captain Collingwood announces retirement

Former England skipper Paul Collingwood is set to retire at the end of the ongoing domestic season, ending a career spanning more than two decades.

Collingwood, who led England to the World T20 title in 2010 -- their first major win in a global tournament -- played in 68 Tests, 197 one-day internationals and 36 Twenty20s.

"After much thought and deliberation, I have decided to announce my retirement from cricket at the end of the current season," the 42-year-old all-rounder said in a statement.

"I knew this day would eventually come but it hasn't made it any easier - although it's an emotional decision, I know that the time is right and I'm comfortable knowing that I have given every last ounce of energy to the sport.

 

"I have achieved so much with both Durham and England; far more than I ever imagined and I feel extremely privileged to have had such a long and rewarding career," added Collingwood, who was part of three Ashes-winning teams and was one of Wisden's five Cricketers of the Year in 2007.

Collingwood made his first-class debut in 1996, also played in the Indian Premier League (IPL) for Delhi Daredevils and Rajasthan Royals, and played and coached in the Australian Big Bash with Perth Scorchers.

Collingwood, who had retired from Test cricket in 2011, will play his final game for Durham at home against Middlesex, starting on September 24.

--IANS

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