Aaron Finch announces BBL retirement

Aaron Finch has announced that the ongoing BBL (Big Bash League) season will be his final one. The 37-year-old will retire from the tournament with Melbourne Renegades, and his T20 career seems to be coming to a close as well. The retirement decision is only related to the BBL, but it is unlikely that Finch will play any major franchise tournaments across world cricket.

"There've been some real lows but great highs [too], and I've loved every bit of the journey; no moment can compare to winning the BBL title. That, for me, was very special, and something I'll remember. I'm really proud to have played at one club for the entirety of my career. The Renegades have been a huge part of my life, and I'm so grateful for everything they've given me,” Finch was quoted as saying by ESPNcricinfo

"To everyone who's been part of the journey with me - our members, fans, supporters, my team-mates and all who have had a part to play at the club at all levels - thank you,” he added.

It is worth noting that Finch is not currently part of Renegades’ lineup, however, the club has plans to give him a farewell outing against Melbourne Stars. Finch, the second-highest run-getter of the tournament behind Chris Lynn, has left a lasting impact on the BBL. In his 106-match career currently, Finch has 3311 runs at an average of 34.85 and strike rate of 131.28, including two centuries and 26 half-centuries.

Finchy has been an outstanding servant: David Saker

After the retirement announcement, David Saker, head coach of Renegades, came forward to laud Finch for his stellar career, highlighting how rare spending one’s BBL career at one club is. 

"Finchy has been an outstanding servant and leader with the Renegades; it's such a rare feat in the Big Bash to spend your career at the one club, Finchy has been an outstanding servant and leader with the Renegades; it's such a rare feat in the Big Bash to spend your career at the one club,” Saker said.