 DeFreitas has confirmed this season will be his last |
Former England all-rounder Phil DeFreitas is to retire from first-class cricket at the end of the summer. He began his career with Leicestershire 20 years ago and returned in 2000 after spells with Lancashire and Derbyshire.
DeFreitas, 39, was part of England's 1986-7 Ashes-winning side and played in the 1987 and 1992 World Cup finals.
"He's had a very good career and for me he was a magnificent bonus on our trip to Australia in 1986-7," former England skipper Mike Gatting told BBC Sport.
Dominica-born DeFreitas took 140 wickets at 33.57 for England in 44 Tests.
He also played 103 one-day internationals, claiming 115 wickets in the process.
His decision comes as Leicestershire prepare to begin the 2005 County Championship at home to Durham from next Wednesday. "For England, Phil was a wonderful young man with a bit of pace, his fielding was magnificent and he had a bit of talent with the bat," Gatting added.
"He's one of those guys you want in the game. It's sad he's going to retire but he's been good for the game."
MMIX
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Cricket fans should bid a warm farewell to Phil DeFreitas - his contribution for 19 long years to English cricket is unforgettable