WORCESTERSHIRE coaches and players took to social media to pay tribute to their former spinner Saeed Ajmal after he announced his retirement from cricket at the age of 40.

Ajmal made a significant impact during his three spells at Blackfinch New Road, particularly in 2014 when he picked up 63 wickets in just nine County Championship appearances.

He also featured for the County in 2011, helping them to survive in Division One, and in 2015.

Assistant coach Matt Mason tweeted: “We were so lucky to have you at Worcestershire CCC mate and I wish you and your family all the best in the future. Hope our paths cross again. Congrats on an amazing career.”

County keeper Ben Cox tweeted: “Congratulations on a fantastic career mate. It was a pleasure to keep to you and I wish you all the best in the future.”

Ajmal confirmed his retirement and said: “My cricketing career has come to end but my life is blessed with your love, care, respect, and prays.

“I want to say thanks to my family, friends, fellow cricketers, coaches, Pakistan Cricket Board and all who helped me to achieve the highest rank in the game we all love. Thank you so much.”

Ajmal finished with 178 wickets from just 35 Tests plus 184 ODI and 85 T20I victims.