Melbourne : Australian veteran all-rounder Shane Watson has confirmed that he will call curtains on his glorious 14-year international career at the conclusion of the ongoing World Twenty20 in India.
“It’s been over the last week that it’s really become clear that now really is the right time to retire from all international cricket,” Watson was quoted as saying by cricket.com.au.
Watson, who retired from Test cricket at the end of last year’s Ashes tour of England, will continue to play in the lucrative T20 tournaments like the Indian Premier League, Caribbean Premier League, KFC Big Bash League and Pakistan Super League.
“I’ve been playing with the thought for a few months now and I know now with the way the group is continuing to evolve, which is exciting to be able to see, with my young family as well, and seeing the potential of the international schedule is very hectic.
“And I just know it’s the right time to be able to right now clear my mind knowing that I’ve made the decision and be absolutely ready to go for these next two very important games,” the 34-year-old added.
Watson, who has represented his nation in 190 ODIs, has scored 5757 runs at an average of 40.54 and bagged 168 wickets at 31.79. He also the Australian record for the highest ODI score, his unbeaten 185 against Bangladesh in Dhaka in 2011.
Australia will next play against Pakistan before taking on hosts India on Sunday in a bid to secure the semifinals spot in the World T20. (ANI)