Harvey Hosein, the Derbyshire wicketkeeper-batter, has announced his retirement from professional cricket after missing much of the 2021 season due to a series of concussions.
Hosein, 25, made his first-class debut for Derbyshire against Surrey in 2014, at the age of 18, and starred from the outset, claiming seven first-innings catches, and a club record 11 for the match, in an eight-wicket victory.
However, his progress was hampered this season, with four recent concussions, and two instances in which he had to leave the field due to concussion protocols. The latter incident, a blow to the helmet while batting against Leicestershire in the Royal London Cup in July, ruled him out for the remainder of the season.
And now, following assessment and management from Derbyshire's medical team and a specialist consultant multidisciplinary team, Hosein has chosen to step away from cricket with immediate effect to prevent any possible future injury.
"Retiring early from the game has been the hardest moment I've faced in my professional career," Hosein said. "I have been lucky enough to enjoy eight professional seasons as a homegrown player; an ambition I held since joining the Club at the age of 12.
"I am extremely grateful for the support I have received during my time at Derbyshire and would like to extend my heartfelt gratitude to everyone at the Club, both on and off the field.
"This is not how I envisaged or wanted to leave the game; however, I have made lifelong memories during the past 13 years at Derbyshire.
"The loyalty and support that I received from Members and supporters is something I will always cherish - it has meant a huge amount to me over the years.
"I look forward to joining them in supporting the Club as I look to the future and a new career path."
Hosein played in a total of 83 matches for Derbyshire, scoring 2,768 runs, with a top score of 138 not out, while he also claimed 156 dismissals.
He will continue to receive support from the club, as well as the Professional Cricketers' Association, as he works towards an Investment Management Certificate qualification, and a new career in finance.
Ryan Duckett, Derbyshire's chief executive, said: "I'm deeply disappointed for Harvey and as a Club, it's unfortunate to lose a talented and home-grown cricketer, but players' health must always come first.
"There are risks associated with any contact sport and cricket is no different, particularly at this level. The Club's medical staff and Harvey himself have followed the ECB's concussion protocols thoroughly and there is no doubt that in doing so have in all likelihood prevented further injury.
"Harvey has acted professionally throughout his time with Derbyshire and has been a great ambassador for the Club and the sport. He's an intelligent young man with a bright future ahead of him. On behalf of the Club, I wish him all the very best and we will support him in any way we can as he begins a career outside of cricket."