On October 29, 2024, Matthew Wade, the Australian wicketkeeper-batter has announced his retirement from international cricket. Wade was part of 225 matches for Australia in his 13 years long international career.
During the day night Test match against New Zealand in Perth, which Australia won by 296 runs, Wade was called in to bowl in the second innings and he definitely shocked Ross Taylor with his swing with the new ball in the first ball of the spell. The video of the same has been going viral on the day of his retirement.
The wicketkeeper has been part of three ICC T20 World Cups for Australia and even was the World Cup champion in the 2021 even in UAE as the vice-captain of the side.
He helped Australia win the semi final against Pakistan with an unbeaten innings of 41 runs off 17 balls. In T20Is, he scored 1,202 runs across 92 matches at an average of 26.03 and a strike rate of 134.15. Wade has smashed three half centuries in this format.
He was part of 36 Test matches for Australia and scored 1,613 runs at an average of 29.87. The wicketkeeper has smashed four centuries and five half-centuries. Wade also played 97 ODIs for the Men In Yellow and amassed 1,867 runs at an average of 26.29. He has one century and 11 half-centuries in this format.
Matthew Wade set to be part of the coaching staff of Australia against Pakistan
Wade will continue to be part of the domestic setup of Australia and keep playing in the T20 leagues around the world. Moreover, he will also be part of the coaching staff of Australia for the upcoming white ball series at home against Pakistan.
Wade shared, “I knew my international days were likely ending after the last T20 World Cup. Retirement and coaching have been frequent topics of discussion with George (Bailey) and Andrew (McDonald) over the past six months.
Coaching has been on my radar for a few years, and I’m grateful for the opportunities that have come my way. While I’ll still play in the BBL and occasional franchise leagues, my focus is now on developing as a coach.
As I wrap up my international career, I want to thank my Australian teammates, staff, and coaches. The journey has been challenging, but with the support of those around me, I got the best out of myself.”
