Former England hockey player Gareth Batty retires from cricket and becomes Surrey assistant coach | Cricket news

Batty played in England 20 times between 2002-2016; spinner claimed more than 500 goals in various forms during Surrey’s two spells; The 43-year-old now works alongside Alec Stewart, Vikram Solank and Richard Johnson at Kia Oval

Gareth Batty scored 534 goals for Surrey in all forms in two blocks in the club – 1998-2001 and then 2009-2021

Gareth Batty has been appointed Surrey’s full-time assistant coach when he announced his retirement as a player.

The 43-year-old off-spinner played more than 700 professional matches during his career since his debut in 1997, including nine tests, 10 one-day international matches and a lone T20 national team for England.

Batty performed in 377 matches for Surrey with two spells, collecting 534 goals in all forms.

Former Surrey captain now works alongside cricket manager Alec Stewart, head coach Vikram Solank and assistant coach Richard Johnson at Kia Oval.

Batty, who started receiving coaching assignments in 2019, told Surrey’s official website: “It has been a privilege to play a professional game for over 20 years.

– I didn’t take a moment for granted and I know how lucky I am to represent my teams.

“I want to take this opportunity to thank everyone who has been involved in a very enjoyable career: teammates, coaches, family, friends and fans.

“I am now excited to start a new career in this great company and look forward to all the challenges and opportunities it brings.”

Stewart added Batty, who also played in Worcestershire and her home country of Yorkshire: “Batts should look back on his playing career with immense pride.

– He achieved so much in the game and is always 100% committed to each team he represents.

– His knowledge and passion for the game are second to none, which is a great resource when he starts his coaching career.

– He misses in the locker room everything he has given as a captain and player, but I know that a loyal and caring nature is now moving into his coaching.

– We congratulate him on everything he has achieved as a player, so we look forward to him starting his coaching career, from which I have no doubt that he will be a great success.

“Cricket is in his blood, and we’re very lucky to have him in Surrey to help develop and improve our players.”