Hip injury forces Giles to retire

Cricket: England spinner Ashley Giles has announced his retirement from cricket due to a persistent hip injury.

Cricket:England spinner Ashley Giles has announced his retirement from cricket due to a persistent hip injury.

The 34-year-old, one of the stars of England's 2005 Ashes success, has become resigned to his fate after more than a year of problems.

Giles claimed 143 wickets in 54 Tests and hit a brilliant 59, his highest score for England, as he shared in a crucial 109-run eighth-wicket stand with Kevin Pietersen to help secure the Ashes at the Oval two years ago.

Giles said: "Following guidance from my hip surgeon, Dr Marc Philippon, I am very sorry to announce that I am retiring from all forms of cricket with immediate effect."