LONDON: Former England batsman Vikram Solanki announced his retirement from cricket here on Monday. The 39-year-old played in 51 one-day internationals and three Twenty20 internationals for England between 2000 and 2007.

Solanki, formerly of Worcestershire but now with Surrey, said: “Whilst the realisation that my playing days are coming to an end is naturally difficult to come to terms with, the decision to retire is one that I have had some time to think about.

“I have been very fortunate to have played for two wonderful clubs as well as for England, and would like to thank everyone that has played a part in my career for their help and support over the years.”

Solanki scored over 18,000 first-class runs. His England spell included two hundreds and two appearances at the 2007 World Twenty20 in South Africa.

Surrey director of cricket Alec Stewart said: “Speaking on behalf of the Surrey dressing room, I would like to thank Vik for the massive contribution he has made and the positive impact he has had on everyone throughout his time here.

“On a personal note I would like to congratulate him on an outstanding career and wish him all the very best in whatever may follow,” the former England wicket-keeper-batsman added.

“He has set very high standards throughout his time in the game, is a model professional and should be immensely proud of everything he has achieved.”—AP

Published in Dawn, September 8th, 2015

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