Hogg forced to retire

Kyle Hogg: back injury has killed his game

CRICKET: KYLE Hogg has been forced into retirement from all forms of cricket due to a severe back condition.

The former junior at Greenfield Cricket Club, the all-rounder made his Lancashire debut in 2001.

The 31 year old enjoyed the most prolific season of his career in 2013, winning the club’s player of the year and championship player of the year awards, thanks to 60 wickets from 15 matches at an average of 18.41.

He formed a potent new-ball attack with his captain Glen Chapple to pass 50 wickets in that competition for the second time in three seasons as Lancashire won a return to the top flight.

Hogg was awarded his county cap during the 2010 summer, and was one of the first names on the Lancashire team sheet in Championship cricket.

He ended his career with 280 first-class wickets from 114 matches, with eight five-wicket hauls and one 10-wicket match return. He also scored 2,708 runs with 16 half-centuries.

Saddleworth-based Hogg said: “The news of the severity of my back condition came as a shock and I am faced with no alternative but to hang up my boots.

“I’d like to thank everybody at Lancashire County Cricket Club for the support they have shown me over the years — the coaches, staff, team-mates, members and supporters have all had a major influence on my career. I have loved every moment of my time at such a fantastic cricket club.”

Cricket Director, Mike Watkinson, said: “Kyle has made an outstanding contribution. As well as being such a talented cricketer he is a top bloke and totally committed to the club. It’s very sad he has been forced to retire at the peak of his career.”