The former England bowler has taken a job as cricket correspondent for a national newspaper.

After a successful first spell during England's tour of India, he will also continue commentating for BBC's Test Match Special.

Fraser's retirement was widely mooted but it was confirmed in an article in the Independent.

Fraser replaces another former England seamer, Derek Pringle at the newspaper.

He will, though, be available to Middlesex for the first month of the season.

And Middlesex fans should be able to see him play in the first two County Championship matches and the zonal stage of the Benson & Hedges Cup.

Fraser, who has spent 18 years at the top level, said: "Although the emotional wrench of leaving Middlesex will be huge I'm certain I'm making the right decision.

"All I have had from the county is 100% support.

"When you've been a player for as long as I have you do wonder whether you'll enjoy anything quite as much as playing, but I've spent a lot of this winter writing and commentating and enjoyed it hugely.

"I always wanted to stay in the game, which meant a career in the media, coaching or as an administrator. Having got a taste for the media work, that's where I see my future."

Fraser made his last England appearance three years ago after a 10-year international career that saw him take 177 wickets in 46 Tests at an average of 27.32.

He added: "I've loved playing, but as you get older you quickly realise that your playing days are at an end."