Mark Wallace has decided to call it quits after serving Glamorgan for nearly two decades.
Ending his 18-year journey with Glamorgan, Wallace has announced his retirement from the professional game to take up a role with the Professional Cricketers Association (PCA). Wallace, who made his debut in 1999, played 600 games across all formats and scored over 11,000 first-class runs. The former wicketkeeper also had 759 dismissals to his name in first-class cricket.
He was the PCA Chairman since 2013 but will now join the organisation as Player Development Manager, supporting professional cricketers in the South-West and Wales.
Speaking over his retirement decision, he said:
“I’ve been extremely fortunate to have been able to represent the club for so long and while I walk away with a heavy heart I’m delighted to be able to start the next chapter of my life with the PCA,” said Wallace. “I’m hugely thankful to the club for the opportunities they’ve given me, the supporters for enduring some of my performances and to my family and friends for their unwavering support.
“I will be going back into Glamorgan in a different role and that will probably feel strange because nothing replaces playing. I’ve had my last day’s training and now I’m an ex-cricketer, so it is an odd feeling. But I know the PCA very well. Being Chairman for four years has given me a real insight into the organisation and given me some real enthusiasm and drive to want to help players,” added Wallace who was the youngest wicketkeeper to play for Glamorgan when he made his debut in 1999.
Hugh Morris,Glamorgan’s chief executive, paid his tribute to the former Glamorgan skipper.
“Mark Wallace has been an integral part of Glamorgan CCC for almost two decades. He will be long remembered for his skill with bat and gloves, his leadership qualities, as a role model in the dressing room and as an ambassador for the club,” said Morris.
“Mark can look back on an outstanding professional career with great pride and it is excellent news that he will continue to contribute to the game of cricket in his new role at the PCA. On behalf of the club, the committee and all supporters we wish Mark and his family all the very best with this new chapter in their lives,” he concluded.