Matt Prior retires

So it looks as though Matt Prior announced his retirement today. It's a shame that his injuries have forced him into early retirement. His contributions to the England team over the years were immense and he was a key part of three Ashes series victories.

He certainly announced his arrival in Test cricket with his unbeaten century at Lord's against West Indies. Though my own favourite Prior knock was his match and series-saving innings in Auckland in 2013 where he marshaled the tail to an improbable draw. The sheer exhaustion in his face and body was clearly evident and he was never quite the same after that magnificent innings.

MS Dhoni was the only wicketkeeper to score more runs during Prior's Test career. His batting average of 40.18 is the highest of any England wicketkeeper to claim at least 100 dismissals and fourth best all time behind Kumar Sangakkara, Andy Flower and Adam Gilchrist. Elite company in the modern-era of wicketkeepers.

www.espncricinfo.com/england/content/story/886295.html