England's Sidebottom retires from international cricket

England left-arm pace bowler Ryan Sidebottom has retired from international cricket, the player said in a statement today.

England left-arm pace bowler Ryan Sidebottom has retired from international cricket, the player said in a statement on Monday.

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The Nottinghamshire swing bowler, 32, played 22 tests, taking 79 wickets after making his England debut in 2001.

"I have had a truly fantastic period of my life with England but now it is time to hand over the ball to those a little younger," he said on his county's website (www.nottsccc.co.uk).

"I have been fortunate enough to live the dream with England. It has been a fantastic time but I have no doubts that now is the right time to announce my retirement." Sidebottom achieved career-best figures of seven for 47 against New Zealand in 2008, which included a hat-trick.