Published: Jun 25, 2018, 04:30 PM (IST)
Edited: Jun 25, 2018, 04:30 PM (IST)
Worcestershire left-arm seamer Jack Shantry has retired from professional cricket because of a persistent back problem. Shantry, 30, took 266 wickets at an average of 29.25 in 92 First-Class matches with a distinctive action. He also scored two hundreds, but he has not played for Midlands county Worcestershire in any format this season. Following medical advice, he has called time on a cricket career that started in 2009. Shantry rose from the Under-17s (for Shropshire), and was a surprise selection for the Worcestershire side.
His finest moment came at New Road in 2014. He first scored 21; then took 6 for 87 against to restrict the Surrey lead to 134; then, coming out at 171 for 7, he slammed a whirlwind 89-ball 101; and finally, defending 217, he took 4 for 44 to bowl Worcestershire to a 27-run win.
Retirement Statement pic.twitter.com/NGL4xTjRZy
— Jack Shantry (@JackShantry) June 25, 2018
Worcestershire coach Kevin Sharp told the club website: “Shants has been a great servant to the club. He has been an unusual bowler and he has taken a lot of wickets and what a great stalwart for Worcestershire. It is always a bit sad when someone has to finish through injury. He has got a back injury which is not allowing him to bowl so he is fully retired from cricket now. A top lad, a very popular member in the squad and we wish him well for the future.”
