Paul Taylor retires from first-class cricket

Northamptonshire's former England fast bowler Paul Taylor has confirmed his retirement from first-class cricket.

The 37-year-old left-armer, who played twice for England in the 1990s, was released by the County at the end of last season.

He said: "There were opportunities with other clubs but I've decided it's time to move on. I've really achieved everything I wanted to achieve on the playing side and I want to develop some other interests now.

"I still feel pretty fit, and by finishing with the first-class game at this stage I should be able to have a few more years in club and Minor Counties cricket. I was obviously disappointed that my Northants career ended the way it did, but I would like to publicly thank all the club's supporters for their tremendous backing over the years."

Taylor began his Championship career with Derbyshire in 1984 and moved to Northampton in 1991 after a spell with Staffordshire. He made his Test debut against India in Calcutta on the 1992-93 tour, and was also chosen against New Zealand at Lord's in 1994.

In all first-class cricket he claimed 559 wickets - 531 of them in his 169 matches for Northamptonshire - and his benefit in 2000 raised £92,000.

Chief Executive Stephen Coverdale commented: "Paul has made an immense contribution to Northamptonshire over the past eleven seasons. He has been a model professional, and what he has achieved - particularly his international recognition - speaks volumes both for his ability and his character, bouncing back after being rejected at Derby early in his career. I know everyone at the club will want to wish him well for the future."