James Taylor retires due to heart condition

Taylor forced his way back into Test side last year following a three-year absence and played his part in the series victory in South Africa.

The right-hander represented his country seven times in the longest format of the game, as well as featuring in 27 one-day internationals.

But Taylor has now been advised to call time on his career prematurely after scans revealed what has been described as a "very serious heart condition" known as Arrhythmogenic Right Ventricular Arrhythmia (ARVC).

He tweeted to say it had been the "toughest week of my life", describing his world as "upside down", but pledged to keep "battling on".

England team director Andrew Strauss said: "It is both shocking and saddening to hear that James' career has been cut short in such a sudden and unexpected manner.

"Throughout his career, he has constantly impressed with his determination to make the absolute most of his ability, and it is immensely cruel that such a hard working player will be unable to fulfil his great potential in the international arena.

"The ECB will work closely with Nottinghamshire and together we will do everything possible to help James through this difficult period, and aid him in his recovery."