The Australian fast bowler, James Pattinson has decided to retire from international cricket ahead of the Ashes that will be commencing in December. He has reached the decision to focus on family, playing for his state, and helping develop the next generation of fast bowlers. In his career so far, Pattinson played 21 Tests, 15 ODIs, and 4 T20Is since making his debut in 2011, picking 81, 16, and 3 wickets respectively

The pacer started his international career with a fifer on Test debut, which was followed by a Player of the Series performance in the team’s win against New Zealand in 2011. He played his last ODI in September 2015 before suffering a back injury that sidelined him from cricket. He, however, marked his return to Test cricket in 2019 and played the Ashes series that year.

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Announcing his retirement, as per the quotes in Cricbuzz, James Pattinson said, “Leading into pre-season I really wanted to give the Ashes a crack but in the end, I haven’t had the preparation I would have liked heading into the coming season. I didn’t want to be in a position of battling with my body when you need to be 100 percent fit and ready to go at any time. That would not be fair to me or the team.”

He further added, “It was then I felt that instead of trying to play at the very highest level, knowing I have only got three or four years of cricket left, I would focus more on Victoria, helping the young guys develop, perhaps some cricket in England and spending more time with my family.”

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Praising Pattinson’s contribution to Australia, George Bailey – the chair of the Australian men’s national selection committee – said, “Everyone who has played with Patto has thrived on his competitive nature and the sheer pride he takes in playing for his country. James epitomizes what it means to play for Australia, the sacrifices you make, and the hurdles you have to overcome on the journey. But his record speaks for itself, he has been a wonderful player.”

James Pattinson thanked the Australian cricket board for supporting him through his injuries.