Mattew Wade, a former Australian Test wicketkeeper, has decided to retire from red ball cricket while remaining devoted to shorter versions of the game.
In a late statement on Friday, the 36-year-old disclosed his decision before of the Sheffield Shield final. This will be his 166th and final first-class outing, as Tasmania faces Western Australia.
Wade stated that his choice was not motivated by any reduction in performance or lack of participation. Instead, he acknowledged the development of younger talent, which ultimately pushed him to this decision.
“I’m not stepping back due to a decline in performance or feeling inadequate,” he said. “It’s more about the emergence of younger players who have earned their place.”
Wade, who played 36 Tests for Australia as a wicketkeeper and specialist hitter between 2012 and 2021, will continue to play one-day and Twenty20 cricket.
He explained his decision, saying, “By focusing on shorter formats, I hope to improve my physical strength, spend more time in the gym, and secure a longer career in that arena.”
