Former England and Yorkshire player Gary Ballance, who recently played for Zimbabwe, has decided to retire from all forms of cricket with immediate effect.
The 33-year-old played 23 Test matches for England between 2014-2017, and he scored 4 centuries.
He was released from his contract by Yorkshire at the end of the 2022 season.
Balance then signed a two-year contract last December with Zimbabwe Cricket to play domestic and international matches in Zimbabwe, where he was born.
“After much thought, I have decided to retire from all forms of professional cricket with immediate effect,” he said in a statement.
“I had hoped my move to Zimbabwe would provide me with a new-found happiness for the game and I will always be thankful to Zimbabwe Cricket for providing me with an opportunity to return to international cricket and welcoming me into their team.”
“However, I have reached the stage where I no longer have the desire to dedicate myself to the rigours of professional sport and this would do Zimbabwe Cricket and the game itself a disservice, should I carry on. I wish them every success going forward.”
“It is now time for me to move on to the next chapter of my life. I will be making no further comments on my decision at this time.”
He retires with a total of 1,653 runs at 40.31 from his 24 Tests.
