Marcus Trescothick today announced his retirement from international cricket.

The 32-year-old Somerset batsman's decision follows his recent withdrawal from the county's pre-season tour to Dubai with a recurrence of the health problems which caused him to quit two England tours.

Trescothick said " I have tried on numerous occasions to make it back to the international stage and it has proved a lot more difficult than I expected.  I want to extend my playing career for as long as possible and I no longer want to put myself through the questions and demands that go with trying to return to the England team."

"I have thoroughly enjoyed my time playing for England, and I am very proud of having been selected for 76 Test matches and over 120 ODIs.   It has been great privilege to represent my country and I am grateful to the game of cricket for giving me the opportunity to excel at a sport that I enjoy so much. "

 "My desire to play cricket is as strong as it ever was.  But, due to the problems that I have experienced, traveling abroad has become extremely stressful for me.  I now think that it is in the best interests of all concerned that the issue is put to rest so that the England team can concentrate on moving forward, and I can concentrate all my efforts on playing well for Somerset".

"It is a very big season for the club and I am looking forward very much to playing a full part."

England MD Hugh Morris paid tribute to Marcus from New Zealand:

"I would like to place on record my thanks to Marcus for the enormous contribution he has made to the England team in both Test and One Day International cricket.  I fully respect and understand his decision to retire from international cricket and wish him every success in his future career with Somerset."