James Pattinson retires from international cricket

The Australian fast bowler, who took 100 wickets in 40 international appearances across all formats, had hoped to return to the national side for the 2021-22 Ashes series

Australian fast bowler James Pattinson has retired from international cricket.

The 31-year-old had hoped to return to the national side for the 2021-22 Ashes series but after being ruled out of Victoria’s Sheffield Shield opener with injury, he has instead opted to retire from the international game.

Pattinson made his international debut in all three formats in 2011, notably taking a five-wicket haul on his Test debut against New Zealand, but struggled with a series of back injuries before undergoing surgery in 2017.

He returned to the Test team for the 2019 Ashes series, making two appearances and taking five wickets, before making his final red-ball appearance for Australia against New Zealand in January 2020.

In total, Pattinson made 21 Test appearances for Australia, taking 81 wickets at 26.33. He also made 15 ODI appearances, taking 16 wickets, and took three T20I wicket in four matches.

^{Pattinson celebrates dismissing Jason Roy during the 2019 Ashes}

Commenting on his retirement and plans for the future, 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 teammates 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."

Australia’s chief selector, George Bailey, added: "Everyone who has played with Patto has thrived on his competitive nature and the sheer pride he takes in playing for his country. James epitomises 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. We would have loved to have seen a lot more of him over the years."