Shaun Tait, the Australian fast bowler, has declared his retirement from one-day cricket.
At 28 years old, the South Australian will now concentrate on the shortest format of the game, Twenty20, following Australia’s departure from the ICC World Cup after being eliminated by co-hosts India in the quarter-finals.
‘This decision was not made easily, but I believe it is prudent for extending my cricketing career through the numerous opportunities in Twenty20,’ Tait expressed.
‘In truth, playing continuously for both Australia and South Australia has been too much for my body to endure, and I prefer not to face retirement due to injuries that could end my career.’
‘Twenty20 cricket gives me the chance to manage my physical well-being to a point where I feel capable of contributing to the sport for some time longer. My aspiration was to assist Australia in defending the ICC Cricket World Cup. Nevertheless, now that our journey is concluded, I believe it is the ideal moment to explore a new path.’
He noted the highlight of his time with the national team was participating in Australia’s World Cup victory in the Caribbean back in 2007.
Jamie Cox, a legend in domestic cricket and director of the South Australian Cricket Association, expressed his support for Tait’s decision and eagerly anticipates the right-arm bowler representing the Redbacks in their upcoming 20-over matches.
‘Since debuting for South Australia in 2002-03, Shaun has been an outstanding player, delivering some of the fastest balls ever recorded at Adelaide Oval,’ said Cox.
‘We fully endorse his choice to retire, and it’s reassuring to know he will still be present for our Twenty20 endeavors, especially in this year’s Champions League Twenty20 tournament.’
Tait participated in 35 ODIs wearing the green and gold, claiming 62 wickets with his best performance being 4-39.
