Warwickshire captain Jim Troughton has confirmed his retirement with immediate effect.
The 35-year-old rose through the ranks at Edgbaston, but a persistent back complaint has limited the number of appearances that he has been able to make over the last 14 months.
"After what has been difficult 14 months dealing with back problems, I am devastated to have to concede that my playing days are over. I simply am no longer able to do myself justice and after much deliberation and consultation with the club's medical team, my surgeon, family and close friends, I have to accept that I can no longer train and perform to the level required to fulfil my duties as a first class cricketer and club captain," he said in a statement.
"Warwickshire has been my life and I feel privileged to have been associated with such a fantastic club. I have been lucky to have played alongside so many amazing players and coaches, who I will regard as friends for life. Captaining Warwickshire has been the proudest achievement of my career.
"I know that I will now have to step back from, what is a very talented and motivated group of players but I wish them all the best for the rest of the season and for the future. Come on you Bears."
Troughton skippered Wawrickshire to a seventh County Championship title in 2012.
Liam Apicella
