Hogg forced to retire with back injury

Hogg leaves the field after claiming career-best figures against Northamptonshire.

Lancashire seam bowler Kyle Hogg has been forced to end his career with immediate effect due to a back problem.

Hogg, 31, has only featured in eight Championship matches for Lancashire this season, a serious hit to the Red Rose county after his 60 wickets earned him the Player of the Year award last year. His efforts ensured that Lancashire returned to Division One of the County Championship, but his absence this season has left a void in the squad.

The 2013 season rewarded Hogg with career-best figures of 7-27, as Lancashire bowled promotion rivals Northamptonshire out for just 62 at Old Trafford. His final appearance for the Lightning came nearly a month ago against Derby in the 50-over contest, but since then he has been unable to feature due to injury.

The fast bowler made his Lancashire debut back in 2001 and played his final four-day game against Nottinghamshire at Liverpool, a ground which rewarded Hogg well in the latter stages of his career. In Lancashire's Championship-winning season, Hogg claimed 50 wickets despite missing the first five matches of the campaign with further injury problems. 

In his first-class career, Hogg claimed a total of 280 wickets in 114 matches and his ability to add useful late-order runs made him a vital part of the Lancashire team. In 2010, he made his highest score of 88 against Yorkshire and this match became a memorable one for Hogg as he went on to claim his 100th first-class wicket.

The grandson of Sonny Ramadhin never received international recognition, but was respected on the county circuit as a prolific bowler, capable of exploiting early-morning conditions to his advantage. 

Commenting on the unfortunate situation, Hogg said: "News of the severity of my back condition came as a shock and I am faced with no alternative but to hang up my boots.

"I have loved every moment of my time at such a fantastic cricket club. I have some great memories, such as being part of the squad that won the County Championship title in 2011, and I have played in some memorable games alongside some outstanding players."

With Hogg now retired and Chapple in the latter stages of his career, the likes of Tom Bailey will face added responsibility and the rumour that Leicestershire's Nathan Buck is heading to Lancashire may be a timely acquisition for the Red Rose.