Mark Davies: Kent seam bowler forced to retire through injury

Davies took 62 first-class wickets after moving to Kent in 2012

Kent seam bowler Mark Davies has been forced to retire after failing to recover from a shoulder injury.

The 33-year-old has not played since sustaining the problem in a pre-season game and he recently underwent surgery.

Davies took 315 wickets at an average of 22.42 in 109 first-class appearances for Durham and Kent.

"I'm disappointed with the situation but have to accept it. I thank everyone for their support through some tough times," he said.

Born in Stockton-on-Tees, Davies played his first one-day match for Durham in 1998, but had to wait four years for his first-class debut.

A former England Under-19 international, he was part of the squad that won four major trophies in his 14-year stint at Chester-le-Street.

He helped Durham to the County Championship title in 2008 and 2009, as well as the Friends Provident Trophy and the Natwest Pro40 in 2007.

His career-best bowling figures of 8-24 came in the first innings against Hampshire at Basingstoke in 2008 and a year later Davies was called up to the England Test squad as cover for James Anderson and Ryan Sidebottom.

Davies moved to Kent in 2012 and went on to take 62 first-class wickets for the Canterbury club.

Having previously been sidelined by a back injury in 2006 and a stress fracture of his foot in 2011, Davies has not played competitively since September 2013.

Kent head coach Jimmy Adams said Davies' retirement left "a big hole in the bowling line-up and dressing room".

He added: "It is never easy for a cricketer to give up the game he loves and Mark gave his all to get himself fit.

"On behalf of the lads, I'd like to thank Mark for his contribution to the club and wish him good luck for the future."