Australian captain Michael Clarke has pulled the pin on his Big Bash League career after four years and zero appearances for the Sydney Thunder.
More of a marketing tool than an active player, Clarke officially cut ties with the franchise to focus on Australia’s hectic summer schedule, which includes a four-Test series against India and a tri-series featuring India and England in the lead up to next year’s ODI World Cup hosted by Australia and New Zealand.
As is to be expected, maintaining Australia’s recent return to form on the international stage overrides local competition, but that won’t help the hapless Thunder, who have won just a single game over the past two BBL seasons.
“Having looked at the fixture list … it is in the best interests of the club if I make myself unavailable for selection this season,” Clarke said in a statement.
“(This will) allow the Thunder the chance to offer a contract to a younger player who would really benefit from the opportunity.
“I will continue to support the club and monitor the situation in future seasons regarding availability.”
The 33-year-old Clarke retired from international T20 cricket in 2011 and last played in the 2012 Indian Premier League season.
The Thunder will go to war this summer featuring Australian Test opener David Warner, South African all-rounder Jacques Kallis and 39-year-old veteran Mike Hussey with the season kicking off on December 21 at ANZ Stadium.
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