Date:28/02/2008 URL: http://www.thehindu.com/2008/02/28/stories/2008022855302100.htm

Sport - Cricket

Brad Hogg calls it a day

Melbourne: Brad Hogg has announced his retirement from international cricket. The 37-year-old left-arm Chinaman bowler will bid adieu after the CB ODI tri-series finals against India.

An influential bowler in the middle overs of an innings, he orchestrated major momentum shifts in the ODIs. Hogg has 154 wickets in 121 ODIs at an economy rate of 4.52 and a strike rate of 35.4.

He was less successful in Tests, where he picked up 17 wickets in seven matches at an average of 54.88. He is a handy and spirited batsman down the order, a key figure in several Australian fightbacks. “It is an exciting and a sad time,” he said.

The West Australian spinner said certain personal issues led to his decision. “I’ve had a good run and am really happy with what I have achieved,” he said. “I’m going out on a high,” Hogg added.

The spinner’s enhanced accuracy made him a greater force in the ODIs during the final stages of his career. He varies the extent of his turn and is not easy to read. He switches the angles and uses the crease intelligently. His role in Australia’s World Cup triumph last year in the Caribbean was significant. He brought variety to the attack. — Special Correspondent