Hello, Lykkers! Today, we have some news from the cricketing world with Matthew Wade announcing his retirement from international cricket and swiftly moving into a coaching role.

Wade, who was a fixture in Australia’s T20 side, had hinted that the T20 World Cup in June would likely mark the end of his international career after being overlooked for the tour of the UK in September.

His retirement follows his decision to step away from red-ball cricket back in March after a successful season with Tasmania that saw them reach the Sheffield Shield final.

Starting next month, Wade will step into a coaching position with Australia’s T20-I squad for their series , under the guidance of coach Andre Borovec.

Although his role will be officially unofficial during the ODI series, he will also collaborate with the coaching staff, including Andrew McDonald and his assistants, as they prepare for the Test series against India.

“Coaching has been on the radar over the last few years, and thankfully some great opportunities have come ,” Wade said. "The international retirement and transition have been a constant topic of discussion with George [Bailey] and Andrew [McDonald] over the past six months. Excited to contribute to the team in a new role and help shape the future of Australian cricket."

AUSTRALIAN CRICKETER MATTHEW WADE RETIRES | Goonj Sports

Video by Goonj Sports

While he’s stepping back from international cricket, Wade will continue to play in the Big Bash League for the Hobart Hurricanes and participate in various franchise T20 tournaments around the globe. This will allow him to stay active in the game he loves while also preparing to mentor the next generation of players.

Wade’s international career spanned across 36 Tests, 97 ODIs, and 92 T20Is from 2011 to 2024. He was a pivotal part of Australia’s T20 World Cup title-winning team in 2021, notably playing a key role as a finisher in the semi-final against -Pakistan, where he scored an unbeaten 41 off just 17 balls.

"Looking back, gratitude goes to all the Australian teammates, staff, and coaches. The journey has been incredible, despite its challenges at the international level. None of this would have been possible without the support of great people along the way," Wade reflected. "A special thanks also goes to family, who made countless sacrifices over the years to support these dreams."

Wade's Test career concluded in 2021 during India's previous tour, but he had earlier made a triumphant comeback as a specialist batter in the 2019 Ashes, where he scored two centuries. His most recent ODI appearance was also in 2021, marking a brief return to the squad after a four-year hiatus during the West Indies tour amidst the Covid era.

Cricket Australia CEO Nick Hockley praised Matthew for his outstanding international career, saying, 'His talent and adaptability have established him as a remarkable player in all formats. We’re excited that he will now guide the next generation as a coach and continue to make his mark in the Big Bash with the Hobart Hurricanes."

Wade’s transition to coaching marks a new chapter in his career, but his impact on the field and in the dressing room will undoubtedly leave a lasting legacy in Australian cricket.