Australian wicketkeeper-batter Matthew Wade has officially retired from international cricket and will soon begin his new journey as a coach, starting with Australia’s T20I series against Pakistan next month.
Wade Transitions from Player to Coach
After representing Australia in 36 Tests, 97 ODIs, and 92 T20Is from 2011 to 2024, Matthew Wade has chosen to step back from international matches but will remain active in the Big Bash League (BBL) with the Hobart Hurricanes and other franchise leagues. In a swift transition, Wade will take on a coaching role, helping guide a young Australian T20I squad under the lead of Andre Borovec while head coach Andrew McDonald prepares for the upcoming Test series against India.
Reflecting on his career and this new chapter, Wade shared, “I was fully aware my international days were most likely over after the last T20 World Cup. Coaching has been on my mind for years, and I’m grateful for the opportunities now coming my way.”
A Look Back at Wade’s International Journey
Wade’s journey with Australia has been filled with memorable moments, including his role as a finisher during the 2021 T20 World Cup, where his quickfire 41 off 17 balls helped Australia secure a semi-final victory against Pakistan. Wade retired from red-ball cricket earlier in March 2024, shortly after Tasmania’s Sheffield Shield run.
As he closes his international career, Wade extended thanks to his teammates, coaches, and family, especially his wife Julia and their children. “Without my family’s support, none of this would have been possible,” he noted.
Wade’s Legacy and Future Contributions
Wade’s contributions to Australian cricket have been widely celebrated. Cricket Australia’s CEO, Nick Hockley, commended him, stating, “Matthew’s versatility and skill have made him an exceptional player across all formats. We look forward to his continued impact in coaching and in the BBL with the Hobart Hurricanes.”
