Jeff Thomson quits

Press, 22 September 1978, Page 24

Jeff Thomson quits

NZPA Brisbane The fiery Australian pace bowler, Jeff Thomson, yesterday announced his retirement from test cricket from September 30 — less than a month before the England team is due to arrive for the Ashes series. Thomson told a news conference in Brisbane that he could not overcome his financial and other problems “by remaining within the restrictive area of playing for the Australian Cricket Board.” Later, a World Series Cricket spokesman said in Sydney that the 28-year-old Thomson still had no association “whatsoever” with the Kerry Packer organisation.

Thomson, who played 32 tests and took 145 wickets at an average of 25.52 runs, said test cricket had severely disrupted his personal life and put a tremendous strain on his finances and marriage.

He said he had always tried to do his best for Australia, but it was equally important for him to look after his personal life. Earlier this month, the Australian Cricket Board rejected Thomson’s request to release him from the contract he signed last November to make himself available for selection in all association and board teams forthe 1977-78 and 1978-79 seasons.

Thomson stressed that he

was keen to continue playing Sheffield Shield cricket for Queensland. He said although he deeply regretted the A.C.B’s rejection of his “reasonable, gentlemanly and proper request,” he wished to thank the selectors and officials for their assistance and encouragement. The World Series Cricket spokesman said “If and when Thomson is free of his contractural obligations and if he is desirous, we would be happy to talk to him.” The former Australian test captain, Bob Simpson, said in Sydney that Thomson would be missed by the Australian side but there were several fast bowlers capable oi filling the gap.