Michael Klinger quits first-class cricket

Klinger never played ODI cricket for Australia.

Michael Klinger has 11320 runs to his name in a career spanning 19 years. (Mid day)

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 will, however, continue playing franchise T20 cricket which includes the BBL as well. 

"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. 

Klinger has plied his trade for South Australia, Victoria and West Australia including the including Worcestershire and Gloucestershire in the English county arena. In spite of being a batsman par excellence in the Australian domestic circuit and churning out runs repeatedly, Klinger never played ODI cricket for Australia. He has just played 3 T20Is for Australian national side making his debut as late as last year against Sri Lanka.

One of the finest Australian batsman on the wrong side of his 30s his decision to retire from the game was very understandable. 

 
 

By Anshuman Roy - 02 Mar, 2018

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