Shane Watson set to retire from international cricket after the World T20: Australia all-rounder, Shane Watson today (March 24) announced that he will retire from international cricket after the ongoing World T20 competition. However, he will continue to play in domestic T20 leagues including the IPL.

The 34-year-old decided to call it a day with teammates in Mohali on the eve of Australia’s vital clash against Pakistan. Australia are to win consecutive matches against Pakistan and India to qualify for the semis.

Shane Watson said: “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.

“And 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.”

“Shane should be proud of his contribution to Australian cricket,” Cricket Australia chief executive James Sutherland said.

Watson played 190 ODIs, scoring 5,757 runs at an average of 40.54 and taking 168 wickets at 31.79 apiece.

The 34-year-old has played in 56 T20 internationals so far and will carry on till Australia survive at the World T20 race.

Watson retired from Tests following last summer”s Ashes series in England. He has appeared in 59 Tests, scoring 3,731 runs at 35.19 and taking 75 wickets at 33.68.

These numbers prove that he has been Australia”s one of the best all-rounders across all formats.