Australia’s tenacious fast bowler Ryan Harris has decided to retire from international cricket having decided that his latest injury – a damaged right knee – wouldn’t heal in time for him to feature in the Investec Ashes against England starting this Wednesday.
Harris last Test was the Test against India in Sydney earlier this year in January. Injuries have been a constant feature of the lion hearted cricketer’s career, and some of his best performances had come when injured in one way or another.
But this time, Harris has had enough. He has finally had it. Harris spoke at length to the press about his decision. He said, “Given the news I received yesterday, and after talking it over with my family, I know now is the right is the time to step away from cricket. I’m pretty lucky, I have had a wonderful career and nothing made me prouder than pulling on the baggy green.
“I played 27 more Tests than I ever thought I would and I have relished every single moment of them. I couldn’t have played with a better bunch of blokes and walking away from the team and our support staff is probably the hardest thing to stomach right now. This is a very special team and I know they will do Australia proud in this Ashes series. I know I will certainly be watching every ball.
“I am lucky enough to have a wonderful family who have supported me through the ups and downs of my career and I’m looking forward to the next chapter of my life with them and spending time with my new son Carter. Whatever is next for me, and I don’t know what that is right now, I know it will still involve cricket as that is what I love and I want to be able to give back to the game that has given me so much.”
The Australian coach Darren Lehmann called Harris “one of the most talented players I have ever seen.” He added, “Ryan always gave it his all for his country and he epitomises everything the baggy green stands for.” Lehmann said. “His never-say-die attitude was his signature as he left absolutely nothing on the field each time he played and I think that is something for which he should be incredibly proud.
“His beautiful wife Cherie and his new son Carter, his dad Jim, his late mum Gai and his brother Gavin will be so proud of him and what he has achieved and the legacy he leaves behind. The team and I are certainly very proud of everything he has achieved on and off the field and we wish him all the best in whatever he decides to do next.”
Pat Cummins, a young fast bowler has been named as Harris’ replacement for the Ashes. Cummins was to be a part of the Australia A tour of India but will now join the Australian side ahead of the first Test at Cardiff. Harris will stick around in as bowling consultant and a coach to the younger Australian bowlers.
