Australian wicketkeeper-batter Matthew Wade has officially announced his retirement from international cricket at the age of 36. Following his retirement, Wade will step into a coaching position with the Australian men’s team, participating in their upcoming T20 international series against Pakistan next month.
Despite retiring from international play, Wade will continue his cricketing career with the Hobart Hurricanes in the Big Bash League, as well as playing in various T20 global franchise tournaments.
Throughout his career, Wade accumulated a total of 225 appearances for Australia across all formats. His final match was during the Super 8s stage of this year’s T20 World Cup against India. Reflecting on his decision, Wade mentioned he had anticipated his international career was likely nearing its end following the recent T20 World Cup. He expressed his readiness for the next chapter, emphasizing that coaching has been a goal of his for years, and he is grateful for the opportunities that have come his way.
In terms of statistics, Wade played in 92 T20s for Australia, scoring 1,202 runs, with an average of 26.13. In One Day Internationals (ODIs), he scored 1,867 runs from 83 innings, including one century and 11 half-centuries. His Test career included 36 matches where he hit four centuries and was part of the 2019 Ashes team. As a wicketkeeper, he recorded an impressive 240 catches and 26 stumpings across all formats.
Wade’s transition into coaching could bring fresh perspectives to the Australian team, harnessing his extensive experience on the field. His continued involvement in the Big Bash League promises to keep him engaged with the cricket community, inspiring younger players as he shares his knowledge both on and off the field. This new chapter not only marks the end of an era for Wade but also heralds a potential flourishing coaching career that fans and players alike can look forward to.
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