King of Spain Giles has earned his seasons in the sun
It was fitting that when Ashley Giles admitted defeat after a brave battle to prolong his career, he should do so at The Oval - the ground where his eventful career began and the scene of his finest hour.
Wednesday's announcement that the 34-year-old Warwickshire left-arm spinner was retiring with immediate effect confirmed one of the worst kept secrets of the summer. The King of Spain, as he became known, thanks to some mis-spelt merchandise, had been desperate to recover from a chronic hip problem and play on until his surgeon issued grim warnings about his future health.
Popular appeal: Giles was superb in 2004 and 2005
Giles spoke yesterday of his desire to be remembered as a "decent bloke" and he certainly will be. What is more, he maximised his talents to become a pivotal figure in one of the most successful teams to represent England.
Having endured much criticism - not to mention the cruel "wheelie-bin" nickname - he earned his days in the sun in 2004 and 2005. First came the purple patch three years ago when Giles, who had come close to quitting the game after being verbally abused by home crowds, snatched 24 wickets in three glorious Tests against New Zealand and the West Indies.
In the process he bowled Brian Lara at Lord's to register his 100th scalp in fine style. His exploits saw him named as a Wisden Cricketer of the Year in 2005 and that summer he played his part in Australia's Ashes downfall. A few snapshots of that epic series are etched in the memory - Giles's wonder ball to dismiss Damien Martyn at Old Trafford, his winning runs at Trent Bridge as Shane Warne and Co circled for the kill, and his maiden Test 50 in the final match.
That last achievement came at The Oval, where Giles began as a Surrey seamer. It was also in Kennington that he first played for England, in a one-day international 10 years ago. "Winning the Ashes would be my fondest memory," he said yesterday.
"But I am also really proud that I got 100 Test wickets and 1,000 Test runs. That was a big notch for me."
As well as expanding his media work, Giles may now venture into coaching. After 54 Tests as a player, he still has a lot more to offer.
