Back injury forces Jack Shantry to retire

Former Shropshire and Worcestershire seamer Jack Shantry has called an immediate end to his professional career at the age of 30 due to a long-standing back injury.

The unorthodox left-arm seamer took 266 wickets at an average of 29.25 from 92 First Class matches but has retired on medical advice, having not featured in any format for the Pears this year.

Shantry, who also registered two First Class centuries during a career that started in 2009, said in a statement: “It is with great sadness that I announce my immediate retirement from all forms of cricket.

“Whilst I am incredibly disappointed to be retiring at the age of 30, I am grateful for the opportunities afforded to me by Worcestershire CCC over the last ten seasons.”

The Shrewsbury-born left-armer has also played for Oswestry, Wellington and Shrewsbury in the Birmingham & District League.

Worcestershire head coach Kevin Sharp said: “Shants has been a great servant to the club. He has been an unusual bowler and he has taken a lot of wickets and what a great stalwart for Worcestershire.

“It is always a bit sad when someone has to finish through injury. He has got a back injury which is not allowing him to bowl so he is fully retired from cricket now.

“He's a top lad, a very popular member in the squad and we wish him well for the future.”