Warwickshire Wicketkeeper Michael Burgess Announces Sudden Retirement
In a surprising move, seasoned Warwickshire wicketkeeper Michael Burgess has decided to retire from professional cricket, despite having a year left on his contract. The 30-year-old will now pursue new career opportunities in London.
Burgess joined Warwickshire in 2019 after initially signing a two-year deal from Sussex. He was set to remain with the club until the end of the 2025 season, but has now opted to step away from the game altogether.
A product of the Surrey youth system, Burgess went on to earn his first-class debut for the Loughborough UCCE side in 2014, before joining Leicestershire a year later.
His impressive 98-run knock on debut during a tour match against Sri Lanka in 2016 caught the attention of many, though he was released by the county at the end of that season.
Burgess then considered alternative options, including a city job in London and a role at the Royal Hospital School in Ipswich, before securing a trial and permanent deal with Sussex. His move to Warwickshire in 2019, facilitated by Paul Farbrace’s arrival as the county’s director of sport, proved to be a significant chapter in his career.
During his six-year stint at Edgbaston, Burgess amassed 3,000 runs in 65 first-class matches, including a career-high 178 against Surrey in 2022. He played a crucial role in Warwickshire’s County Championship and Bob Willis Trophy double triumph in 2021. Last season, he continued his impressive form, scoring 745 runs at an average of 43.82 and registering six centuries.
In his retirement statement, Burgess expressed his gratitude to the Warwickshire members, fans, and the wider club for their unwavering support over the years. He fondly recalled the 2021 title-winning campaign as a career highlight, and praised the talent of his teammates, who he believes will bring future success to the club.
Warwickshire’s Response
Warwickshire’s performance director, Gavin Larsen, acknowledged the disappointment of losing a player of Burgess’ caliber but respected his decision to embark on a new chapter. Larsen highlighted Burgess’ resilience, batting prowess, and wicket-keeping skills, which will be missed by the team.
The onus now lies on Warwickshire to bolster their squad, with Burgess’ retirement adding to the departures of Will Rhodes and Chris Benjamin, as well as the injury-enforced retirement of Liam Norwell. The club has only secured the signing of seamer Ethan Bamber from Middlesex so far, as they prepare for the 2025 season.
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