Hutton and Johnson call it quits

Last Updated: Monday, 1 October 2007, 13:02 GMT 14:02 UK
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Hutton and Johnson call it quits

Hutton and Johnson both made an impact at Middlesex

Middlesex pair Ben Hutton and Richard Johnson have retired from first-class cricket with immediate effect.

Ex-captain Hutton, 30, and ex-England paceman Johnson, 32, struggled for first-team action for most of 2007 as Middlesex claimed Pro40 promotion.

"It is with great regret that I decide to finish with the game," said Hutton.

"A lack of first-team opportunity has made it a difficult season to enjoy and it seems sensible to pursue something more progressive and enhancing."

He added: "It is important that Middlesex's many talented young batters are given an opportunity and I do not want to stand in their way."
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Hutton is the grandson of England legend Len and son of another Test player Richard.

He was skipper for two years before handing over the Middlesex captaincy to Ed Smith following a difficult 2006 season.

Johnson returned to Middlesex for a second spell after six years at Somerset but could also not force his way in this year.

He played three Tests for England in 2003 - and was man of the match in two of them - as well as 10 one-day internationals.