Butcher calls time on career
Aug 07 2009 - 08:19:15
Former England batsman Mark Butcher has retired from first-class cricket due to persistent knee problems.
The 36-year-old Surrey captain has called time on his career after failing to recover from a third knee operation last month.
"It was a very tough decision to walk away from the club I've called home and the game that has given me so many great memories," said Butcher, who also played in 71 Tests for England.
"I feel that it is the right time to move onto the next chapter in my life.
"I look back very fondly on my 20 years as a player at Surrey, in my opinion the best place to play cricket in the land, and I am also very proud to have represented my country."
Butcher scored 17,870 runs during a 17-year professional career at an average of 40.70.
His occasional medium-pace swing bowling also brought him 125 wickets.