England all-rounder Liam Dawson has announced his retirement from first-class cricket with immediate effect in a bid to prolong his white-ball career.
The 36-year-old confirmed that he will continue to play limited-overs cricket for Hampshire and Manchester Originals, and will also remain available for England’s white-ball teams.
The 36-year-old, who played four Test matches for England, confirmed that he will continue playing limited-overs and will remain available for England’s white-ball teams.
Dawson played four County Championship games this season, claiming seven wickets, before missing Hampshire’s heavy defeat to Glamorgan due to injury.
In first-class cricket, Dawson scored 10828 runs, including 18 centuries, and scalped 380 wickets.
Dawson also represented England in four Tests, with his last appearance coming against India at Old Trafford in 2025.
He was also recognized for his outstanding performances in 2024 when he was named Men’s Player of the Year at the Professional Cricketers’ Association awards, alongside the Overall Domestic MVP and County Championship Player of the Year honors.
Following the announcement, Dawson expressed pride in representing Hampshire while admitting that it was a challenging decision.
“I’ve decided to retire from first-class cricket,” Dawson said.
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“It’s a decision that I haven’t taken lightly but I feel for the benefit of prolonging my career in white-ball cricket, the time is right.,” he added.
The all-rounder said that he was extremely proud to have played over 200 games for Hampshire and had created many special memories with several players.
“I’m extremely proud to have played over 200 games for Hampshire and have had some amazing memories with so many players over the years. I’m fully committed to playing white-ball cricket for Hampshire and continuing the success we’ve had.”
“To the fans and members who have turned out over the years, I can’t thank you enough for your support. Hampshire will always be my home, and I look forward to playing in front of you all at Utilita Bowl very soon,” he concluded.
For the unversed, Dawson’s maiden Test appearance came against India in the 2016-17 tour. He was also included in the squad for the South Africa series later that year; however, he had to wait eight years to play his next Test match, which came against India.
Notably, he was also part of England’s 2019 World Cup-winning squad and traveled as a reserve player with the 2022 T20 World Cup-winning team.
It was in 2025 that he became a regular feature in England’s T20I side, which eventually led to his inclusion in the 2026 T20 World Cup squad.
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