Kirtley is in his 16th season with Sussex

Former England fast bowler James Kirtley has announced his retirement from cricket at the end of the season.

Kirtley, 35, who made his Sussex debut in 1995, has taken over 600 first-class wickets during a career which also earned him four England Test caps.

"Playing for Sussex has been an amazing 16 years of my life," said Kirtley.

"To be a part of such a successful team has been a privilege and while calling it a day has been difficult I will look back with many happy memories."

Apart from his four Tests, following his debut against South Africa at Trent Bridge in 2003, Kirtley also represented England in 11 one-day international and one Twenty20 appearance.

But the highlight of his county career was his 5-27 in the 2006 C&G final when Sussex beat Lancashire by 15 runs.

The dedication and sacrifices James has made for his career have been a constant source of inspiration and an example to any player Sussex coach Mark Robinson

He also made headlines when he had remedial work on his bowling action in both 2001 and 2005, being cleared both times.

Sussex cricket manager Mark Robinson said: "The dedication and sacrifices James has made for his career have been a constant source of inspiration and an example to any player.

"For many years he has led both our one-day and four-day attack and will go down as one of the all-time greats of Sussex cricket."

Kirtley is the second Sussex player to announce his retirement this season, following all-rounder Robin Martin-Jenkins, who packed in last month.

The Clydesdale Bank 40 clash with Surrey at Hove on 4 September will be Kirtley's last match for the county should Sussex fail to progress from the group stages of the competition.

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