Australia Cricket | Klinger calls time on first-class career

Australian veteran Michael Klinger has finally decided to call time on his first-class career after almost two decades. Klinger will retire after the completion of the ongoing season, bringing to end a career in which he scored 11,320 runs at an average of 39.30, with 30 centuries in 182 games. He, however, will continue to play T20 cricket which includes the Big Bash League.

"I feel extremely fortunate and blessed to have been part of the Australian domestic cricket structure for 19 years in a row and I've loved and appreciated every minute of it," he said in a statement on Friday (March 2). "Throughout this period, I've learnt about professionalism, effective communication, having fun and have been extremely fortunate to be part of four trophy-winning teams with the Warriors and Scorchers.

"I also need to send a huge thank you to my family for all their support, in particular my wife Cindy and kids Bailey, Summer and Easton, who have travelled with me for the last 10 years, both interstate and overseas, to give me the best opportunity to chase my dreams," he added.

The 37-year-old has played for three teams in the duration of his career - Victoria, South Australia and Western Australia, including Worcestershire and Gloucestershire in the English county arena.

Klinger has not played for Western Australia in the ongoing Sheffield Shield season. However, the state side confirmed that he will be available for their final match of the season, if need be.

(CRICBUZZ)