Wicketkeeper Tom Poynton has announced his retirement from the professional game.
Poynton’s decision has been forced following the significant deterioration and continued professional workload of an ankle injury sustained in a car crash that tragically killed his father, Keith, in April 2014.
The 26-year-old, a graduate from the Cricket Derbyshire Academy in partnership with the University of Derby and former England under-19 international, appeared in 117 matches for the county since making his debut in 2007.
In total he scored 1,603 runs, with a top score of 106 versus Northamptonshire in 2012, and claimed 168 dismissals behind the stumps.
Poynton said: “It’s been a really difficult decision to retire from the game I love, but the medical diagnosis and advice means I know that it’s the right decision.
“I’m grateful to everyone in the Derbyshire cricket family and further afield who have helped me during my career, both on and off the field.
“I’ve loved playing for Derbyshire, a Club I’ve been associated with for over 10 years, and I’m sad to leave.
“I now need to focus on the next stage of my life after cricket. There’s a few opportunities that I’m going to pursue and I’m excited about what lies ahead.”
Chief Executive, Simon Storey added: “Tom is a model professional and leaves the Club with a gap to fill on and off the field.
“He is a natural leader and fine cricketer who has overcome great personal tragedy in the process of representing his home county.
“He has shown huge commitment and courage to get back playing first-class cricket at Derbyshire and on behalf of the whole Club – Members, sponsors, supporters and staff – we all wish Tom every success in the future.”
