Clarke announces ODI retirement
March 28, 2015 01:36 pm
Australia’s skipper’s shock announcement that he will quit one-day internationals after the World Cup final against New Zealand.
Australia captain Michael Clarke has announced the World Cup Final will be his last one-day international match, opting to retire from the 50-over game after his third World Cup to prolong his Test career.
Clarke made the shock announcement at his official captain’s press conference before tomorrow’s showpiece event at the MCG.
He said he only told teammates just 10 minutes before telling the world’s media assembled at MCG. Clarke opened his press conference by saying: “Just so everyone is aware, tomorrow will be my last ODI game for Australia.
“I’ve just spoken to my teammates and spoken to (Cricket Australia CEO) James Sutherland and (National Selection Panel chairman) Rod Marsh and (Bupa Support Team head coach) Darren Lehmann and informed them tomorrow will be my last ODI for Australia.
“It’s certanly been an honour and a privilege to represent my country,” Clarke added. The World Cup final will be his 245th ODI for Australia since his debut in 2003.
Part of the all-conquering 2007 World Cup team, Clarke took over the captaincy following the 2011 World Cup which eneded at the at the quarter-final stage with defeat to India.
