Waters forced to retire with dystonia

Huw Waters, the Glamorgan seamer, has been forced to retire through illness. He has missed the last two seasons and, having been diagnosed with exercise-induced dystonia, has accepted it will not be possible to continue playing professionally.

"The last 12-18 months have been very difficult," Waters said. "We have explored all routes to overcome this and get back playing. After various specialists looking at my case, it has been concluded that no treatment would have allowed me to perform at first-class level."

Waters, 27, has not played a first-class match since April 2013. He has since been battling dystonia, a movement disorder that causes muscle spasms and contractions, thought to be a neurological condition: a problem with the part of the brain that controls muscle movement. There is currently no cure.

"Muddy" Waters was a promising seam bowler who came through the Glamorgan academy. A Monmouthshire boy, he made an immediate impact on first-class cricket with 4 for 75 on debut at Trent Bridge in July 2005 as an 18-year-old. A year later he played for England Under-19s in the World Cup semi-final, a match also featuring Ravindra Jadeja, Moeen Ali and Cheteshwar Pujara, who made a match-winning 129 not out.

In 2012 he claimed 39 wickets at just 20.46, including a first-class best 7 for 53 against Hampshire at Cardiff, and was named Glamorgan Championship Player of the Year. He was awarded his cap at the final match of the season but it would unfortunately be his final County Championship appearance.

"I am thankful for all the support I have received from everyone at the club," Waters said. "The patience and understanding they have shown is something I am very grateful for. I have to thank them for giving me the opportunity to live my dream to play cricket for Glamorgan and I wish the club well for the future.

"I have some great memories to look back on and so many people were a huge part of those memories. I now look forward to the next chapter in my life with great excitement."

Glamorgan director of cricket and chief executive Hugh Morris added: "With the ability to swing the ball from a young age, Huw was a regular for the England Under-19 set-up and without injury would have made many more appearances for Glamorgan.

"He was capable of outstanding spells with the ball and stubborn innings at the tail or as a nightwatchman. He has been the consummate professional, capable of leading our attack, and his calm demeanour in both pressure and everyday situations means he will be sadly missed by the team and everyone at the club. We wish him well for the future."