Fast bowler Aaron Beard has announced his retirement from professional cricket following the conclusion of the 2024 season.
Chelmsford-born Beard retires after having played 75 matches and winning four trophies for the Eagles across all formats.
The 26-year-old made his Essex debut in the first-class Tourist match against Sri Lanka in 2016, returning match figures of 5/81. He made his County Championship bow a week later against Derbyshire in as season which culminated in the promotion to Division One.
He was a member of the double-winning Essex squad of 2019, playing eight matches in the Vitality Blast, including the final, as well as making seven appearances in the successful County Championship campaign.
Over his career, Beard took 101 wickets in all formats, with a best performance of 4/21 in a 2020 Bob Willis Trophy match against Middlesex. He also contributed over 500 runs for Essex.
“It’s going to be hard to leave, but I’m definitely keen to stay involved in the game, and develop my career as a coach,” said Beard.
“Starting from when I was eight years old and coming through the whole set-up to receive my first contract, it was always my dream to represent Essex.
“That’s why it’s going to be a tough decision to leave, but I think the best thing for me to do at this time is to pursue other opportunities.
“The PCA have been so supportive. They’ve helped me through every situation that has come up, and the whole process has been so much easier with them being involved.
“I’d like to thank all the Members, supporters, and staff, as well as my teammates and coaches, for all their backing and encouragement throughout my career.”
“Aaron leaves with nothing but our very best wishes for the future,” added Essex Director of Cricket, Anthony McGrath. “He has always given his all during his time here, and he fulfilled his childhood dream in winning five trophies with Essex.
“We are sorry to see him go, but fully respect his decision, and he will always have friends and a wide support network here at The Cloud County Ground.”
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In what’s set to be an unmissable afternoon of IT20 cricket, some of the world’s best T20 cricketers will go head to head in a T20 set in the heart of Essex.
What’s more, the game will be played on the Spring Bank Holiday making it the perfect day out with friends and family.
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