Australia's James Pattinson announces Retirement from International Cricket

On Wednesday, Australian fast bowler James Pattinson has announced to retire from the test cricket ahead of the upcoming Ashes series against England, reported an Australian newspaper. 

Throughout his career, Pattinson has battled injuries, has 81 wickets from 21 Test matches for Australia since his debut in December 2011.  The 31-year-old’s decision to retire could leave Australia short of bowling options for the five-Test Ashes, which is due to begin on December 8 in Brisbane. 

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. If I was to be part of the Ashes I would need to do myself and my team-mates justice. I didn't want to be in a position of battling with my body when you need to be 100 per cent fit and ready to go at any time. That would not be fair to myself or the team. 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", reported ESPN cricinfo.