Really sad news, he certainly seems to be an unlucky player. Especially when you remember that his father Jeff (also an England fast bowler) retired in his 20s with an elbow injury.
Well the standard of medical care is a lot better today than it was in the 60s, but it's not out of the question I suppose. At least he has time on his side, he'll still be only 29 when the Aussies come here in 2009!