Australian wicketkeeper-batter Matthew Wade has announced his retirement from international cricket. The 36-year-old will transition into a coaching role with the national men’s team, Cricket Australia confirmed on Tuesday.
Wade made his international debut in 2011 and has represented Australia in 36 Tests, 97 ODIs, and 92 T20Is. His last appearance came in the T20 World Cup in June 2024.
“I was aware that my international days were likely over after the last T20 World Cup,” Wade said. “Coaching has been on my radar for a while, and I’m excited to take on this new challenge.”
Wade will immediately join the Australian coaching staff for the upcoming T20I series against Pakistan. He will also be involved in the ODI series starting next week in Melbourne. Despite his retirement from international cricket, Wade will continue playing domestic cricket for Tasmania and the Hobart Hurricanes in the Big Bash League.
Cricket Australia CEO Nick Hockley praised Wade’s illustrious career and welcomed his contribution to the coaching staff. “Matthew has been an outstanding performer across all formats,” Hockley said. “We’re delighted he will continue to contribute to Australian cricket by coaching the next generation of stars.”
Ben Oliver, Cricket Australia’s Executive General Manager of High Performance & National Teams, also expressed gratitude for Wade’s services. “Matthew was a beloved teammate and his resilience and adaptability were key to his success,” Oliver said. “We look forward to him sharing his experience as a coach.”
