<div><b><span style="font-size: 1rem;">Eoin Morgan, England's 2019 World Cup-winning captain, has announced his retirement from all forms of professional cricket with immediate effect.</span><br></b></div><div><br></div><div>Morgan, 36, retired from international cricket in July 2022 after a 16-year career - first with Ireland, then with England - but continued to play in short-form tournaments around the world.</div><div><br></div><div>He captained London Spirit to the Hundred's eliminator last year, was a losing finalist in the Abu Dhabi T10 with New York Strikers, and made seven appearances for Paarl Royals in the recently-concluded SA20.</div><div><br></div><div>Morgan will remain involved in the professional game as a broadcaster and is unlikely to be short on offers to become a coach if he desires.</div><div><br></div><div>He said in a statement: "It is with great pride that I am announcing my retirement from all forms of cricket. After much deliberation, I believe that now is the right time to step away from the game that has given me so much over the years. From moving to England in 2005 to join Middlesex, right up to the very end, playing for Paarl Royals in SA20, I have cherished every moment.</div><div><br></div><div>"As there are in every sportsperson's career, there have been highs and lows, but my family and friends have been by my side throughout it all. I would like to say a particularly special thank you to my wife, Tara, my family and close friends who have supported me unconditionally.</div><div><br></div><div>"I also must thank all my teammates, coaches, fans, and those behind the scenes who not only made me the player I became but have also made me the man I am today. Thanks to cricket, I have been able to travel the world and meet incredible people, many of whom I have developed lifelong friendships with. Playing for franchise teams across the globe has given me so many memories that I will hold onto forever.</div><div><br></div><div>"Since my retirement from international cricket, I have been able to spend more time with my loved ones, and I look forward to being able to do so more and more in the future. Having said that, I will undoubtedly miss the adventure and challenges of playing professional cricket.</div><div><br></div><div>"Although I am calling time on my playing career, I will still be involved in the game, working alongside broadcasters at international and franchise tournaments as a commentator and pundit. I am sincerely looking forward to what the future holds."</div><div><br></div><div>Middlesex, Morgan's county, said: "Middlesex Cricket would like to thank Eoin for all he has done for the Club and the game throughout his career. We are extremely proud to have played a part in his success and wish him every success for his future career in the media." Source: ESPN</div><div><br></div><div>bnbd24/fas</div>