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Damien Martyn declares

Source: Herald Sun - December 09, 2006

Damien Martyn yesterday announced his retirement from cricket three days after concerned teammates counselled him about his troubled mind-set.

Martyn's shock decision stunned national selectors, who hurriedly called up West Australian batsman Adam Voges to a 13-man squad which already included Queensland all-rounder Andrew Symonds.

Symonds is more likely to play in Thursday's third Test against England at the WACA Ground, Martyn's home ground.

The pressure on Martyn to retain his place was believed to be the major reason for his decision -- but he was not pushed by selectors.

He knew he was in the team which was minutes away from being released at 11.15am when he sent a text message to Cricket Australia chief executive James Sutherland alerting him to an email saying he would retire from all cricket.

Martyn may have seen Symonds' name in the team and been unable to face another week of conjecture over his place.

Martyn told Sutherland he did not want to speak to anyone because he wanted the decision to be his own.

CA rang captain Ricky Ponting, who was playing golf with teammate Stuart Clark.

Martyn, 35, who played 67 Tests and was one of the finest batsmen of his era, could no longer tolerate the relentless scrutiny of his form which was affecting his passion for the game -- as evidenced by his reckless second-innings dismissal against England on Tuesday when he charged Andrew Flintoff and slashed a ball to gully.

A sensitive man who loathes the spotlight, Martyn cut a sombre figure among the raucous scenes of celebration in the Australian dressing-room after the stunning six-wicket win in Adelaide.

He was in a subdued state about the continuing speculation over his place in the side and, according to one senior player "seemed almost uncomfortable about the fact that he could not enjoy the moment as much as he wanted to".

Two teammates spoke to him about his state of mind and one even suggested that if the game was eating him up to the point where he could not enjoy such a win, he might have to consider retirement.

Yesterday he took the plunge but stayed in hiding.

"I retire with a deep awareness of the opportunities that the game and Cricket Australia have provided for me," Martyn said in a statement.

"I said to myself when I made this decision in the last 48 hours that I may lose friends in doing what I'm doing. But I also said to myself that if I stayed doing what I was doing I may equally lose respect for myself and the friendship of those around me who are entitled to expect from me more than 100 per cent.

"However, I'm also aware of the tremendous challenges facing Australian cricket including this current Ashes series. Such challenges require people who are more than 100 per cent committed, dedicated, disciplined and passionate about the game, what it seeks to achieve and how those involved can best serve cricket, sport and the community.

"I feel, therefore, it's time for me to move aside. I have enjoyed everything the game has given me. I have gained from it more then I could have ever imagined. I have made lifelong friends.

"I want to thank the Australian captain, Ricky Ponting and all members of the current Australian Test and one-day sides. They have always been utterly supportive.

"I wish everyone associated with Cricket Australia the very best."

Sutherland dismissed any conspiracy theories -- a fallout with management, players or selectors -- and said he was sure Martyn had just followed his conscience.

"It was a pretty big surprise to read it (the email) but after having a chat with Damien I got a very clear indication that his decision was absolutely final," Sutherland said.

"It's fantastic that a player of his standing is able to stand up and make a decision and go out on top."

Australian squad for third Test: Langer, Hayden, Ponting (c), Hussey, Clarke, Symonds, Gilchrist, Warne, Lee, Clark, McGrath, Voges, Johnson (two to be omitted).

- ROBERT CRADDOCK