After failing to recover from a string of chronic ailments, doctors have recommended that Liam Norwell, the former Warwickshire seamer whose heroics on the last day of 2022 rescued the team from relegation, retire for medical reasons.
Norwell, 32, was released by Warwickshire in August after not playing a senior match since he achieved a career-best 9 for 62 at Edgbaston in September 2022, leading to a thrilling five-run victory over Hampshire in the County Championship final.
In March 2023, they rewarded him with a two-year contract extension for his efforts in keeping Warwickshire in the first division at the cost of Yorkshire. He did, however, miss the whole campaign that year due to a back injury sustained during preseason. Although he made a comeback in June 2024, playing in four games in the second XI, he tore his pectoral muscle in the last one against Worcestershire.
Warwickshire and Liam mutually ended his contract following another operation. On a few times, he has come very close to returning, but he has failed to cross the finish line.
“After finally overcoming the back injury he suffered terrible luck by tearing his pec when he looked to be getting back to his best.”
Norwell, who was incredibly fast in his day, claimed 347 first-class wickets, including 94 for Warwickshire. He participated in the England Lions’ winter tour to Australia in 2021 after taking 49 of those at an average of 18.21. After the selectors chose him as a stand-by for England’s Test tour to the Caribbean the following spring, he later disclosed that he could not have accepted the summons due to a family illness.
Back in August, Norwell declared, “I’ve really enjoyed my time as a Bear since joining and have shared in some great team successes and memories.” “I was expecting for a successful season and the ability to go back to my best after figuring out the issue and eventually getting beyond my back problems during the winter.
“Despite my tremendous efforts, it was rather difficult for me to recover from this serious injury that required surgery. My current priorities are regaining my health and fitness and determining my family’s and my future.
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