Injured Australian fast bowler Bracken calls it a day

SYDNEY - Australian fast bowler Nathan Bracken Saturday announced his retirement from all forms of cricket due to a persistent knee injury.

Bracken represented Australia in 116 One-day Internationals (ODI), taking 174 wickets at an impressive average of 24.36. Bracken also played five Tests but was never able to cement his place in the side. The left-arm seamer shouldered New South Wales attack in his successful first-class career.

The highlight of his career came when he was ranked the No.1 ODI bowler in 2008.

The 33-year-old said he wanted to continue but recurring injuries forced him to quit.

“I have enjoyed my cricket, but unfortunately knee injuries have taken their toll,” Bracken was quoted as saying by The BBC Sport.

“I have had a strong rehabilitation from my last operation. I have also looked at altering my bowling action to reduce any further damage in my knee which would have enabled me to continue playing, but it has not responded.

“My doctor has advised that I may require further surgery to stabilise my knee, but to continue playing first-class cricket is now not an option,” he said.