LONDON — Australia fast bowler Ryan Harris has retired from all forms of cricket after being ruled out of the Ashes series against England with a knee injury.
The 35-year-old Harris, who underwent surgery on his right knee last year, made the retirement announcement on Saturday.
It came after he continued to experience knee soreness following the first tour match in Kent last week and after receiving the results of medical scans.
Harris said: "Given the news I received yesterday, and after talking it over with my family, I know now is the right time to step away from cricket."
His retirement is a blow to Australia with the first Ashes test starting Wednesday in Cardiff.
Australia coach Darren Lehmann said: "I was lucky enough to captain Ryan as a grade cricketer, a rookie player and as a state cricketer. He was one of the most talented players I had ever seen."
Harris was a late starter for his country, making his test debut for Australia at age 30 in 2010 against New Zealand. He played 27 tests and took 113 wickets at an average of 23.52 with best bowling of 7-117 against England in 2013. He also played 21 one-day internationals, claiming 44 wickets at an average of 18.90.
He began as an all-rounder in South Australia before moving to Queensland in 2008 to focus on pace bowling.
"I’m pretty lucky, I have had a wonderful career and nothing made me prouder than pulling on the Baggy Green," Harris said. "I played 27 more tests than I ever thought I would and I have relished every single moment of them."
He added: "Whatever is next for me, and I don’t know what that is right now, I know it will still involve cricket as that is what I love."
Harris’ last test appearance was against India in January.
The 22-year-old Pat Cummins was named by Cricket Australia as Harris’ replacement. The right-arm fast bowler has played only one test for Australia, taking 6-79 in the second innings against South Africa in 2011.