FORMER Kent and England spin bowler Min Patel has announced his retirement from first-class cricket after finally losing the battle to a succession of serious injuries.

The 37-year-old India-born left-arm spinner made his county debut in 1989 and amassed 630 first-class wickets and won both his England caps in 1996 – against his native India.

Yet his love for cricket came at a dear cost and down the years Patel has undergone knee reconstruction operations on both legs, spinal surgery and had his cheek reconstructed after fracturing it during a rare Kent League appearance.

A popular member of the dressing room, Patel was capped in 1994 and was awarded a benefit in 2004, but in 2005 injury doubts caused Kent to sign him on a ‘pay as you play only’ contract and even last year, though back on a full contract, his appearances were severely restricted by shoulder, neck and elbow problems.

Disappointed to be calling time on his career, Patel said: “It has been an honour to represent Kent for the best part of 20 years.

”While I feel mentally capable of carrying on, the body has said 'enough is enough!'

“I would like to thank the whole of the organisation (from management to players and all the backroom staff) for their support and I wish Rob Key and his team continued success on the field.”

In paying tribute to Patel, a wily campaigner who, if not taking wickets, had the skill to tie up the scoring at one end, Key said: “Min has been ever present at Kent since I joined the club.

“He has been an inspiration to others throughout his career and there are many cricketers within Kent and beyond who have benefited from his knowledge and advice.

“I am most grateful to him for the help and support he has given me, particularly during my time as captain.”

Adding to the tributes, the club’s chairman of cricket Graham Johnson, himself a former first team spin bowler, added: “He has been a top class spinner, very handy batsman and a shrewd tactician who has played at the highest level.

“But for some serious injuries I am sure he would have had more opportunities to play for his country.

“The way he overcame his injuries and his approach to the game are testament to his character and his love of the game.

“It is sad that injury has meant he will not go out of the game in the way he would want - finishing his career winning trophies with his club and we will miss his skills, for there are few spinners of his quality in the world let alone in England.

“We wish Min every success in the future and hope he is a regular visitor to our grounds."