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An illustrious career comes to an end
Peter Siddle, one of Australia’s most determined fast bowlers, has officially called time on his Sheffield Shield career. Despite Victoria’s efforts to convince him to play another season, the 40-year-old pacer is firm on his decision to stay away from red-ball cricket.
An unscripted fairytale finish
Siddle’s last match for Victoria was nothing short of a movie scene. In a dramatic final session, he took the last wicket against Western Australia, giving his side a stunning 34-run win. The match was a fitting finale to his illustrious career, with his experience and skill shining through till the very end.
A career defined by perseverance and excellence
After announcing at the start of the 2024-25 season that this would be his last season, Siddle’s two-year contract signed in 2023 came to an end. His exceptional performances across formats this season – including a first-ever five-wicket haul in one-day cricket and bowling at speeds in excess of 148kph in the Big Bash – have left Victoria captain Will Sutherland and coach Chris Rogers keen to convince him to play.
However, Siddle has stuck to his decision, admitting his love for the game is still strong but the grueling hours spent on the field are now behind him.
Tributes paid to Australian cricket great
Siddle, who played 67 Tests for Australia and 90 Sheffield Shield games for Victoria and Tasmania, leaves behind an extraordinary legacy. His contribution helped Victoria deny Western Australia a historic four-peat in the Sheffield Shield, taking figures of 4-68 in the final innings. His career tally of first-class cricket includes 792 wickets, making him Australia’s most successful fast bowler after Michael Kasprowicz, who retired in 2008 with 959 wickets. Furthermore, his 332 Sheffield Shield wickets place him among the competition’s top 15 all-time wicket-takers.
From debut to stardom
Siddle’s journey in first-class cricket began in 2005, and he crossed the 1000-wicket milestone across all professional formats last year. In his final Shield season he took 24 wickets in five matches at an impressive average of 19.62, proving that even at the age of 40 he remains a formidable force in the game.
Impact beyond the field
Over the past two seasons, Siddle played a vital player-mentor role for Victoria’s young fast bowlers. His wealth of experience and knowledge has been invaluable in guiding the next generation of Australian pacers. The position of Victorian men’s bowling coach is currently vacant following the appointment of Adam Griffith as Cricket Australia’s national fast bowling coach, so Siddle is being considered to switch to coaching.
What’s next for Siddle?
Although he is stepping away from red-ball cricket, Siddle will continue to play in the Big Bash League, having signed a one-year extension with the Melbourne Stars for the KFC BBL|15. His presence will still be felt in the shorter format, ensuring fans can enjoy his brilliant bowling for a short time. A lasting legacy Siddle’s impact on Victorian and Australian cricket is immeasurable. As Will Sutherland rightly said, his dedication to fitness and the demands of the game is remarkable. After giving everything to the game, his decision to retire in style is a testament to his professionalism and passion.
Conclusion
Peter Siddle’s departure from Sheffield Shield cricket is the end of an era. His career has been a lesson in resilience, hard work and an unwavering commitment to excellence. Although he will no longer grace the Shield arena, his legacy will continue through the young bowlers he has coached and inspired.
