Atherton confirms retirement

Michael Atherton officially announced his retirement from international and first-class cricket today.

The former England captain, whose decision comes into effect at the end of the season, merely confirmed what cricket officials have known for some time.

The Lancashire batsman, who led England 54 times and played in 115 Tests, was given a standing ovation following his last innings at The Oval this weekend and was left out of the touring squad for India and New Zealand announced today.

Atherton said: "The Oval Test match was my last for England and I now intend to fulfil my commitments with Lancashire before retiring from cricket at the end of the current season.

"I have enjoyed 15 wonderful years in cricket and would like to thank all the players and staff I have been involved with at Lancashire and England since I first came into the professional game."

Sports minister Richard Caborn today heaped praise on Atherton.

Caborn, who is from Sheffield, said: "Despite coming from the wrong side of the Pennines, Mike Atherton's talent and determination shone through some of the most difficult times on record for the sport in England.

"He was extremely well respected in sport and led from the front in a record number of Tests as England captain.

"Time after time he produced crucial innings for his country and it is no surprise that he tops the list of Test run-makers since 1990.

"His class and reliability will be sorely missed."