James Taylor retires at 26 due to serious heart condition

England batsman James Taylor’s career met with a saddening end after he was forced to retire from cricket after being diagnosed with a serious heart condition.

The 26-year-old cricketer, who plays for Nottinghamshire, had withdrawn from the team’s last week match against Cambridge MCCU due to a health problem which was thought to be a viral condition.

However, specialist scans revealed yesterday that the 26-year-old has the very serious heart condition, ARVC (Arrhythmogenic Right Ventricular Arrhythmia). He requires an operation, which will take place in the coming days.

“Myself and all of James’ teammates & colleagues are terribly sad to hear this news, which comes as a big shock to us all,” said Nottinghamshire Director of Cricket Mick Newell.

“He is a model professional, the most hard working I’ve ever known in cricket, making it all the more difficult to accept that his career has been cut short in this way.

“It goes without saying that he has the very best wishes of us all in terms of recovering from his operation, and that we are looking forward to seeing him back at Trent Bridge when he is fit and able.”

England Team Director Andrew Strauss added: “It is both shocking and saddening to hear that James’ career has been cut short in such a sudden and unexpected manner.

“Throughout his career, he has constantly impressed with his determination to make the absolute most of his ability, and it is immensely cruel that such a hard working player will be unable to fulfil his great potential in the international arena.

“The ECB will work closely with Nottinghamshire and together we will do everything possible to help James through this difficult period, and aid him in his recovery.”

“We ask that the privacy of James is respected as he comes to terms with the situation and focuses on his recovery.”

James Taylor was taking ginat leaps in his career and had impressed everyone with his nature of play. A gritty batsman and a fabulous short leg fielder, Taylor had become a regular feature in the England team in all three format.

Safe to say this has been the toughest week of my life! My world is upside down. But I'm here to stay and I'm battling on! #lifestooshort ??

— James Taylor (@jamestaylor20) April 12, 2016

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