Spinner Anand Katti quits first-class cricket

Anand Katti, the left-arm spinner who played a key role in Karnataka's dominance in the late nineties, has announced his retirement from first-class cricket. He played 46 first-class matches since his debut in 1996-97, taking 141 wickets at 25.85.

Katti, 38, said his decision to quit was hastened by knee surgery he underwent last year. He played for Karnataka till the 2001-02 season, subsequently turning out for Assam.

"Though I have been part of many Karnataka victories, the most memorable point of my career is my debut," he said. "I made my debut in the Irani Cup and we won that match with a side sans stars.

"I am fortunate enough to be a part of the Karnataka side that twice won the Ranji Trophy and the Irani Cup twice. I was also a part of the State side that played against South Africa, making my tenure a memorable one."

Katti said he would continue playing league cricket for State Bank of Mysore.