Shane Watson announces retirement from international cricket

Talking ahead of Australia’s clash against Pakistan tomorrow, the #1 ranked T20 all-rounder said he is ready to hang his boots. The swashbuckling opener revealed how the thought process fell in place. "One morning I woke up in Dharamsala to the beautiful view and I don't know what it was exactly but I knew now was the right time.”

Having represented Australia 56 times in T20Is, Watson noted how the players he started off with have all walked into the sunset. “I've really enjoyed my time being back in the Australian squad. But it is quite different, none of the other guys I played with growing up are here any more. I've made the right decision. I couldn't really see the light with the all the injuries I had," Watson added.

With several injuries keeping Watson out for prolonged periods, the decision was probably expected. "It's been over the last week that it's really become clear that now really is the right time to retire from all international cricket. I've been playing with the thought for a few months now and I know now with the way the group is continuing to evolve, which is exciting to be able to see, with my young family as well, and seeing the potential of the international schedule is very hectic,” he continued.

With Australia needing a win against both Pakistan and India in its remaining two games, Watson knows his last couple of games will be massive. “I just know it's the right time to be able to right now clear my mind knowing that I've made the decision and be absolutely ready to go for these next two very important games."

Speaking of the youngsters who will have his massive boots to fill, Watson seemed unworried. “That's part of what I've always seen myself being the filter to pass on the knowledge to the guys that I'm involved with.”

Having a deep love for the game, Shane Watson might be hanging his playing boots but did not rule out a coaching role in the future. “It's no secret I do love coaching and that's one thing I will be doing in my time off. There's a big break that I'll have after the Caribbean Premier League from August to nearly the start of the Big Bash that I'll definitely up-skill from a coaching perspective whether that's skill-wise with young players or outside the cricket aspect as well,” concluded the Australian.