Katich calls time on Australian career

Former Australia batsman Simon Katich has retired from first-class cricket Down Under but will continue to play for Hampshire.

The 36-year-old played 56 Tests for Australia, scoring 4,188 runs at a healthy average of 45.03, but was never again selected after picking up an Achilles tendon injury in the Baggy Greens' second Test defeat to England in the last Ashes series Down Under.
The left-hander had hoped to continue playing at the highest level but was not offered a contract by Cricket Australia in 2011 despite being in decent form.
He became embroiled in a war of words with the Aussie hierarchy and, after making it clear that he felt his omission was political, it became obvious that he would never again play for his country.
But the Western Australia-born star continued to ply his trade for New South Wales domestically in Australia and also enjoyed spells in the IPL.
But now, as he continues to play for the south coast cub, Cricket Australia have released a statement outlining his decision to end his playing days in his homeland.
"Simon Katich wishes to advise that he has decided to retire from first-class cricket in Australia," it read. "The WACA and Cricket NSW have provided wonderful cricketing environments and amazing opportunities for Simon to play under great coaches, with terrific players and surrounded by dedicated support staff.
"He wishes to thank them all for the camaraderie and support over the last 16 years and for the chance to play in winning teams."