In a shock announcement, England batsman James Taylor announced his retirement from cricket after being diagnosed with a serious heart problem. Taylor, 26, represented England in seven Test matches and 27 ODIs.
The decision had to be taken and announcement made after Taylor was diagnosed with Arrhythmogenic Right Ventricular Cardiomyopathy (ARVC), the serious heart problem which has caused many an issue for athletes in the past. The most famous of them was former Arsenal midfielder Fabrice Muamba, who diagnosed with the same problem after collapsing on the pitch while playing for Bolton Wanderers in 2012.
"Myself and all of James' teammates and colleagues are terribly sad to hear this news, which comes as a big shock to us all," Nottinghamshire's director of cricket, Mick Newell, was quoted as saying by ESPNCricinfo. "He is a model professional, the most hard-working I've ever known in cricket, making it all the more difficult to accept that his career has been cut short in this way.
"It goes without saying that he has the very best wishes of us all in terms of recovering from his operation, and that we are looking forward to seeing him back at Trent Bridge when he is fit and able."
Andrew Strauss, the England team director, also shared his thoughts on the matter. "It is both shocking and saddening to hear that James' career has been cut short in such a sudden and unexpected manner," he said.
"Throughout his career, he has constantly impressed with his determination to make the absolute most of his ability, and it is immensely cruel that such a hard working player will be unable to fulfil his great potential in the international arena.
"The ECB will work closely with Nottinghamshire and together we will do everything possible to help James through this difficult period, and aid him in his recovery."
