Warwickshire: Paul Best retires at 24 with back injury

Paul Best captained England at Under-19 level

Warwickshire all-rounder Paul Best has retired from cricket at the age of 24 after failing to recover from a persistent back injury.

Best made the decision after travelling to the Caribbean for Warwickshire's pre-season tour.

"I can't perform to the level I have in the past and have decided to retire to pursue another career path," Best said.

"The stress fractures I have had to endure over the last two seasons have taken their toll on my body."

His last first-class appearance came in the draw with Oxford MCCU, prior to the start of last season's County Championship.

"I have thoroughly enjoyed my time at Warwickshire and I would like to thank everyone involved for their support," he added.

"I wish the club all the best moving forward and I will follow their progress with great pride."

Best was part of the Bears squad that reached the CB40 Final in 2012 and also captained England at Under-19 level.

Dougie Brown, Warwickshire's director of cricket, said: "It is always sad when injury catches up with a player, especially so when it happens at a young age.

"Paul was an outstanding junior cricketer but his back injury struck at just the wrong time and his first-team appearances have been limited in recent seasons as a result.

"I am sure Paul will be successful in whatever future venture he undertakes and we will miss his contribution to the dressing room."