England batsman Taylor forced to retire

England batsman James Taylor was forced to retire from cricket on Tuesday by a serious heart condition.

Taylor, who plays for county team Nottinghamshire, withdrew from last week's fixture against Cambridge MCCU with what was believed to be a viral condition.

However, specialist scans revealed yesterday that the 26-year-old has the very serious heart condition, ARVC (Arrhythmogenic Right Ventricular Arrhythmia), the England and Wales Cricket Board (WICB) said in a statement on Tuesday.

Taylor played the first of his seven Tests against South Africa in 2012. The middle-order batsman also played 27 One-Days and was captain for England's trip to Ireland last May.

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," he added.

"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."