In a heartbreaking turn of events, Gloucestershire’s wicketkeeper-batter Ben Wells has been forced to retire from cricket at the age of 23 due to a rare heart condition.
In an open letter on the club’s website, Wells revealed he has been diagnosed with Arrhythmogenic Right Ventricular Cardiomyopathy – the same condition that ended former England batter James Taylor’s career. “This is something that I never thought I would have to write,” Wells stated in his emotional letter.
“As tough as it is, this diagnosis has likely saved my life, and in time I hope that I can see it in that light. I’m very thankful to the doctors who have picked this up as soon as they could have.” Wells expressed his gratitude for the experiences cricket has provided him, from the friendships he’s formed to the places he’s visited and the countless memories he’s made along the way.
“Cricket has been a massive part of my life for as long as I can remember, it’s been all I’ve ever wanted to do,” he wrote. Reflecting on his journey, Wells reminisced about his early days playing in the garden with his brother, attending cricket camps, and progressing through age-group sides before realizing his dream of becoming a professional cricketer with Gloucestershire.
“I could never have imagined that this is the path that cricket would have taken me down,” Wells admitted. “I’ve loved every moment and am very grateful to have had the chance to live out a part of this dream, even if it was only for a few years. I will always be incredibly proud to be able to say I was a professional cricketer.” In his three-year domestic career, Wells made his debut in 2021 and featured in 1 first-class game, 15 List A matches, and 9 T20s. Tragically, his last domestic outing, a One-Day Cup contest against Durham, saw him score his maiden century. As Wells comes to terms with this devastating turn of events, the cricketing community will undoubtedly rally around him, offering support and best wishes for his future endeavors beyond the game.