BREAKING: Northants' two-time T20 winning skipper Alex Wakely announces retirement from cricket

Northants' two-time T20 title-winning Alex Wakely has announced his immediate retirement from all forms of cricket.
Alex Wakely pictured after leading the Steelbacks to victory in the 2013 Friends Life T20 final at EdgbastonAlex Wakely pictured after leading the Steelbacks to victory in the 2013 Friends Life T20 final at Edgbaston
Alex Wakely pictured after leading the Steelbacks to victory in the 2013 Friends Life T20 final at Edgbaston

The 32-year-old announced the news to his team-mates at Wantage Road on Wednesday morning, before the club made the official announcement.

Wakely made a total of 371 appearances for Northants across all formats in his 16 years at the club, scoring more than 12,000 runs in the process.

He also captained the club for six years, and recorded great success as he led the team to T20 Blast title glory on 2013 and 2016.

Alex Wakely led Northants to T20 success in 2016Alex Wakely led Northants to T20 success in 2016
Alex Wakely led Northants to T20 success in 2016

He is the only Northants skipper to have won two major titles.

“Northamptonshire Cricket Club has been my life since I was 13 years old and although this decision was extremely tough to make, I am excited about starting the next chapter in my life," said Wakely.

“I’ve thoroughly enjoyed my career and I’m hugely grateful for my time in the game.

"I have had many highs and many lows along the way, but I have always given 100 per cent to Northamptonshire Cricket.

“I can’t thank the club enough for all the opportunities they’ve given me over the years, and in particular head coach David Ripley who has helped, encouraged and supported me throughout.

"He has become a friend rather than a coach and somebody who I have the upmost respect for."

Wakely was fully involved in pre-season this year, and played in the opening LV= Insurance County Championship match of the campaign against Kent at the beginning of April.

That County Ground outing proved to be his final one for the club.