Australian wicketkeeper-batter Matthew Wade has announced his retirement from international cricket at the age of 36. He will transition into a coaching role with the Australia men’s team, starting with their upcoming T20 international series against Pakistan next month.
Despite retiring from international play, Wade plans to continue his career in domestic cricket, specifically with the Big Bash League team Hobart Hurricanes, and will also participate in various global T20 franchise tournaments.
Wade’s international career spans 225 appearances across all formats, with his final outing being in the Super 8s stage of this year’s T20 World Cup against India. Acknowledging his retirement, Wade expressed, “I was fully aware my international days were most likely over at the end of the last T20 World Cup,” noting that conversations about his retirement and coaching roles have been ongoing for the past six months. He added, “Coaching has been on my radar over the last few years and thankfully some great opportunities have come my way, for which I am very grateful and excited.”
Throughout his career, Wade played 92 T20 matches, scoring 1,202 runs with an average of 26.13, while in one-day internationals, he amassed 1,867 runs at an average of 26.29, including one century and 11 half-centuries. Additionally, he represented Australia in 36 Test matches, contributing four centuries and being a key member of the squad during the 2019 Ashes. As a wicketkeeper, Wade completed 240 catches and made 26 stumpings across all international formats.
This new chapter in Wade’s life illustrates a positive transition from playing to coaching, showcasing his continued commitment to the sport and his desire to contribute to Australian cricket’s future. Wade’s wealth of experience will certainly benefit the next generation of cricketers.
Wade’s journey in the world of cricket remains impactful, and fans can look forward to his contributions off the field as he nurtures upcoming talent.
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