One of the leading potentials from the Australian fast bowling unit around 5-6 years ago has announced his retirement from international cricket. A career which has been riddled by injuries, James Pattinson would argue that he could’ve had many Australian bowling records to his name had he had a longer run at the top. However, it wasn’t to be and he has announced his international retirement.
The 31-year old from Victoria made the decision right before the squad could be selected for the 2021 Ashes series which is to be played down under. As per his statement, he’s made the decision so he can focus more on his family, playing for his state and helping develop Australia’s next generation of fast bowlers. This clearly means that a future in coaching awaits the pacer.
Having made his international debut in 2011, Pattinson played a total of 21 Tests, 15 ODIs and 4 T20Is, wherein he picked 81, 16 and 3 wickets respectively. Surely, a pacer at his prime would play much more than only 40 international games over the course of 10 years. Recovering from a back injury, Pattinson would’ve been hopeful of making the Ashes squad, but that won’t happen now.
It’s possible that Pattinson got fed up after living through an injury-ravaged career, and always only spending time recovering. He began his career on a brilliant note, picking up a 5-fer on Test debut and played his last ODI in September 2015, since when he began facing issues with his back. See Pattinson’s statement below on Wednesday, 20th October:
“Leading into pre-season I really wanted to give the Ashes a crack but in the end I haven’t had the preparation I would have liked heading into the coming season. If I was to be part of the Ashes I would need to do myself and my team-mates justice. I didn’t want to be in a position of battling with my body when you need to be 100 per cent fit and ready to go at any time. That would not be fair to myself or the team.”
Chairman of the Australian men’s national team selection committee, George Bailey, said, “Everyone who has played with Patto has thrived on his competitive nature and the sheer pride he takes in playing for his country.” Pattinson thanked the cricket board for all the faith showed in him over the years and we wish him good luck for the next phase of his career.
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