Explosive wicketkeeper-batsman Matthew Wade has announced his retirement from first-class cricket after Tasmania’s upcoming Sheffield Shield final against Western Australia. The 36-year-old is shifting his focus to white-ball cricket, with aspirations of securing a spot in Australia’s T20 World Cup squad in June.
Wade chose to postpone his participation in the Indian Premier League to ensure his availability for this pivotal match. While this decision includes missing the early fixtures of IPL 2024 with the Gujarat Titans, Wade’s primary focus remains on Tasmania’s pursuit of their first Sheffield Shield title since 2012-13.
Matthew Wade has had an illustrious first-class career, clinching four Shield titles with Victoria, two of which he led as captain. Although he hasn’t replicated the same level of success with his current team, Tasmania, he is determined to end his red-ball journey on a positive note by playing a pivotal role in Tasmania’s quest for victory.
Over the course of 165 first-class matches, Wade accumulated an impressive total of 9183 runs at an average of 40.81, while also securing 463 dismissals behind the stumps. Beginning his first-class career in 2007, Wade has made a significant impact on the format.
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With his explosive batting and exceptional finishing skills, Matthew Wade emerges as a valuable asset for Australia’s T20 aspirations. Fans can anticipate remarkable performances from him as he takes the field for the Hobart Hurricanes in the BBL over the next two years.
