Craig Kieswetter has admitted that the mental effects of his facial injury played a key role in his decision to retire from cricket.
The former Somerset and England wicketkeeper confirmed on Friday that he would not be making a return after breaking his nose and damaging his eye and cheekbone in a County Championship match against Northants last summer.
Despite hoping to get back in action for Somerset, Kieswetter claims that the impact on his approach to batting made it impossible for him to continue his career.
"I came back and played a few games and got through on adrenaline and support," the 27-year-old told BBC Points West. "I played a T20 comp and realised that physically my eye wasn't quite right.
"When you have a physical thing it affects you mentally and you start to question yourself and your ability.
"There is a muscular injury but going through that trauma has pushed me back mentally. As a person if I can't give 100% then I'd rather not let myself or the team down. It's disappointing and tough but necessary for me."
Kieswetter played 46 one-day internationals and 25 T20Is for England.
Callum Mulvihill
