Picture Credit: Twitter
Australia skipper Aaron Finch on Saturday announced retirement from ODIs and will play the last & final ODI game on September 11 (Sunday) against New Zealand at Cazaly's Stadium, in Cairns. Cricket Australia confirmed on Saturday that Finch will however continue to lead the squad in the shortest format of the game.
Taking to social media, the Aussie batter shared an emotional post on Instagram and claimed that it was his privilege playing with and against some of the greatest player of all time. He further revealed that playing for Australia was his dream and expressed gratitude toward fans for constant support.
"It’s been one hell of a ride! To playing with and against some of the greatest players of all time has been a privilege. Representing Australia was my dream as a kid and to have been the opportunities I have is beyond anything I could have hoped for. Thanks so much for all of the kind words, messages and well-wishers," wrote Finch.
While cricket fraternity wished the Aussie batter for such an incredible career and future ahead, Indian star batter Virat Kohli who played with Finch during former's Royal Challengers Bangalore stint, congratulated the Australian opener and said that it was his pleasure to play with him and against him.
"Well done, Finchy. It was great to play against you all these years and with you as well at RCB. Enjoy the next phase of your life to the fullest," commented Kohli.
Notably, Finch with his 17 ODI centuries is only behind former Australian skipper Ricky Ponting (29), David Warner and Mark Waugh (both 18).
Finch also revealed that he had wished to lead the squad in 2023 ODI World Cup in India but with a year to go, he wanted to give a new leader best possible opportunity to prepare for the marque tournament.
Finch represented Australia in 145 ODIs and scored 5401 runs, 153 being is highest score. He is also the fourth highest among the batters with most centuries for Australia in ODIs.