Shane Watson Announces Retirement From Big Bash League

Former Australia allrounder Shane Watson, on Friday, brought down curtains on his Big Bash League (BBL) career.  Watson had joined the Thunder four years ago having previously been part of Sydney Sixers and Brisbane Heat. However, 40 of his 41 BBL appearances came for the Thunder. He retires from BBL as Thunder’s highest run-scorer, having scored 1,014 runs. The allrounder also picked up 19 wickets with his medium pace.

Last year Watson signed a two-year extension with the Thunder but has decided to end his BBL career to spend more time with his family. Last season, he was the second highest run-scorer for the Thunder, scoring over 300 runs including a 61-ball century against Brisbane Heat at the Gabba. Watson is currently playing for Chennai Super Kings in the ongoing Indian Premier League. In his last outing, he scored a sublime 96 against Sunrisers Hyderabad to roar back to form.

The allrounder, whose international career was marred with injuries, had retired from international cricket in 2016 after representing Australia in 59 tests, 190 one-day internationals and 56 T20 games.

“I want to thank everyone from the bottom of my heart who has been involved with the Sydney Thunder over the last four seasons,” Shane Watson said. “I will most definitely miss support that the club gets from the Thunder Nation. Their unwavering support through the ups and downs inspires everyone and I will cherish that support deeply.

“Finally, to my team-mates, I have played with so many great people and cricketers at the club and I sincerely wish everyone the absolute best for the upcoming seasons,” he added.

Cricket Australia chief executive, Kevin Roberts, praised Watson’s longevity in the game.

“Shane Watson was one of the most exciting short form players ever to grace a cricket field,” Roberts said. “Talented, skillful and powerful, Shane was a devastating batsman at his best.

“In a career which spanned almost two decades Shane made a major contribution to Australian cricket firstly at international level and then in domestic cricket as a significant contributor to the Big Bash,” he added.

Watson will continue playing in overseas T20 tournaments which means he can play in the next IPL too. He will also continue playing in grade cricket in Australia.