#AaronFinch, #AaronFinchRetirement, #ODI
IBNS: Aaron Finch, Australia’s 24th men’s ODI captain, will retire from one-day international cricket after the third Dettol ODI against New Zealand on Sunday.
The opening batter, who turns 36 in November, will remain captain of the national T20 side that is preparing to defend the World Cup title on home soil next month.
Finch will play his 146th and final one-day international on Sunday at Cazalys Stadium in Cairns, capping off an outstanding career that has seen him captain his country 54 times in the format.
His 17 centuries for Australia put him behind only greats Ricky Ponting (29), David Warner and Mark Waugh (both 18).
Finch’s shock decision comes after a lean run of scores in the 50-over format this season, with his last seven innings netting him only 26 runs.
Finch’s original plan had been to lead the team to the 2023 ODI World Cup in India, stating in 2020 that being in charge for that tournament was his “ultimate goal”.
But Finch said in a statement released on Saturday morning it was now time to give a new leader the best possible opportunity to prepare for and win the next ODI World Cup.
“It has been a fantastic ride with some incredible memories,” Finch was quoted as saying by Cricket Australia.
“I have been extremely fortunate to be a part of some brilliant one-day sides. Equally, I have been blessed by all those I have played with and the many people behind the scenes.
“I thank all of those who have helped and supported my journey to this point.”
He had captained the Australian squad in the 2019 World Cup.
Under his leadership, Australia had reached the semi-finals.
