Veteran Durham batsman Michael Di Venuto has retired from county cricket with immediate effect.
Di Venuto enjoyed a hugely successful spell after moving to the north-east in 2007 from Derbyshire, helping Durham lift the Friends Provident Trophy - their first piece of silverware - in his first season.
The Australian, who played nine one-day internationals from March to December 1997, was in fearsome form at the top of the order in the next campaign, making 1,601 runs at 80.05 as Durham won their first County Championship before retaining it the following season.
However, the 38-year-old left-hander has struggled this year, with an average of under 30 as Durham lie bottom of the Division One table, and he has acknowledged his best days are behind him.
"My body won't allow me to prepare and play the way I want," he told the club's official website. "I set high standards for myself and if I was to continue playing then it would be below these standards.
"While I know I still have some quality short form cricket in me, the day in, day out nature of first-class cricket I physically can't do anymore."
Durham head coach Geoff Cook was quick to pay tribute to Di Venuto's achievements at Chester-le-Street.
"Michael has been a prolific run scorer for the club during his time here and is a much respected player, who will be greatly missed," said Cook.
"He has proved to be a real inspiration on the field and the knowledge and guidance he has shared with our squad, especially the batsmen, has encouraged growth within the side.
"Michael should be incredibly proud of his time here at Durham and we wish him all the very best with his future endeavours."
