Back injury forces Liptrot to retire at 23

Chris Liptrot, the Worcestershire fast bowler, has been forced to retire from professional cricket at the age of 23 because of a persistent back problem.

Liptrot made his debut in 1999, but since then his performances have been limited due to his back problem. He played 30 first-class games, taking 69 wickets at an average of just over 32 with a best of 6 for 44 against Warwickshire in 2000.

Mark Newton, Worcestershire's chief executive, said: "Chris has taken this decision after a great deal of medical advice. We are very disappointed for him, but fully respect his decision."

Liptrot is the second player to leave the club recently following Anurag Singh's switch to Nottinghamshire last month.