Shane Watson to retire after World T20

Watson informed his teammates on Thursday in Mohali that his 14-year career in the green and gold was coming to an end, saying now is the "right time" to walk away from the international arena.

Shane Watson informed his team-mates during a practice session in Mohali that he will retire from all forms of international cricket after the WT20 in India.

Prominent all-rounder Shane Watson, the last member of the famous Australian batch of cricketers, on Thursday announced his retirement from international cricket at the end of the ongoing World Twenty20. Prior to the Australian team's practice session on the eve of its Group 2 match against Pakistan at the PCA Stadium here, 34-year-old Watson addressed his team mates on the ground and informed them about his decision.

However, the well-built cricketer, known for his aggressive batting and medium-pace bowling, will continue to play domestic Twenty20 leagues, including the Indian Premier League (IPL).

>Massive congrats to @srwatson33 on an amazing career in all formats for Australia! You have been an incredible teammate to play with, but more importantly a great friend who I could always rely on. Everything you did for me during the '15 WC and then to have the moments out on the field like we did together, we're nothing short of extraordinary. I dearly hope that you get the correct send off you deserve, and that is to be crowned a world t20 champion. After that, I look forward to having a few glasses of red with you and talking for ages. You are a legend mate! #watto #legend

A photo posted by Glenn Maxwell (@gmaxi_32) on Mar 24, 2016 at 6:37am PDT

Watson, who made his ODI debut against South Africa in 2002 before earning his Test cap three years later, served Australia for 14 years. “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,” Watson was quoted as saying by Cricket Australia.

“I have 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.”

'Different'

Watson, who played with Australian greats including Ricky Ponting, Glenn McGrath, Shane Warne and Adam Gilchrist, said, “I really enjoyed my time being back in the Australian squad but, it is quite different. None of the other guys that I played with growing up are here any more.

"I know how privileged I have been to be in the position to start out so young with so many incredible players. I have always seen myself being the filter to pass on that knowledge to the guys that I'm involved with. I know how incredibly fortunate I have been … my first tour was with Steve Waugh as the captain of the Test squad.”

Watson, who is known more for his feats in limited-overs cricket, was part of the 2007 and 2015 World Cup winning squads. He was chosen Australia's finest cricketer in 2010 and 2011 and adjudged the 2012 World T20 player of the tournament.

Watson captained his country on the forgettable 2013 tour of India but fought back to be in the Australian side which routed England in 2013-14 Ashes series.