Keith Barker announces retirement with immediate effect

Keith Barker has announced he will retire from professional cricket with immediate effect, bringing a 17-year playing career to an end.

2026-08-18T14:00+01:00

The 39-year-old made his Warwickshire debut in 2009 and after ten years with the Bears, joined Hampshire in 2019. He rejoined the Bears for the 2026 season and made two appearances in the Rothesay County Championship before sustaining a knee injury, which has ultimately led to his retirement.

Barker was a former professional footballer before joining the Bears in 2009, initially as a batter before turning into a left-arm swing bowler. He went on to make over 6,000 runs across First Class, List A and T20 cricket, as well as taking over 700 runs across all formats. He scored six First Class centuries and 26 fifties, as well as one half-century in List A cricket.

Keith Barker said: “It’s difficult to put into words what Warwickshire means to me. I first came to the club in 2008 and spent ten years here, before seven brilliant seasons at Hampshire and then getting the opportunity to come back and finish my career where it all started.

“I’ll always be incredibly grateful for my time at Hampshire. It was a huge part of my career and gave me memories and friendships that will stay with me forever.

“I grew up at Warwickshire, not just as a cricketer but as a person, made some of my closest friends and had some of the best years of my life wearing the Bear.

“I always knew this day would come, but that doesn’t make it any easier. In my head I still want to compete, still want the ball in my hand and still believe I can make a difference. Unfortunately, after a long career and plenty of injuries, my body is telling me it’s time.

“To finish my career where it started, in a city that became my home and at a club that will always mean so much to me, feels incredibly special.

“I’m going to miss playing more than I can put into words, but I’ll walk away proud, grateful and thankful to everyone who has been part of the journey. I’d also like to give a special thank you to the PCA for the support they’ve given me throughout my career, particularly over the last few years. Their support has meant a huge amount to me and is something I’ll always be grateful for.”