Peter Siddle Australian champion retired from all formats

Peter Siddle has officially confirmed that he will not return to Sheffield Shield cricket despite Victoria’s efforts to persuade him otherwise. At 40, the veteran fast bowler ended his first-class career on a high taking the final wicket for Victoria in a thrilling 34 run victory over Western Australia.

Siddle had announced at the start of the 2024-25 season that it would be his last. He signed a two-year contract in 2023 to return from Tasmania, with the deal expiring at the end of the season. However his outstanding form led Victorian captain Will Sutherland and coach Chris Rogers to try convincing him to continue for another year.

Despite their efforts Peter Siddle remains firm in his decision. He played a crucial role in Victoria’s win finishing with 4/68 in the second innings. His final wicket sealed Western Australia’s hopes of a fourth consecutive title.

Siddle’s overall first-class record is remarkable. He has taken 792 wickets. This is the highest tally by an Australian fast bowler since Michael Kasprowicz retired with 959 in 2008. In Sheffield Shield history his 332 wickets place him among the top 15 bowlers of all time. This season he claimed 24 wickets at an average of 19.62 in five matches.

While Siddle has stepped away from first-class cricket he will continue playing in the Big Bash League (BBL). He signed a one year contract with the Melbourne Stars. Following his last Sheffield Shield match both teams honored him with a guard of honor at WACA Ground.

Rogers praised Siddle’s contribution to Australian cricket calling him one of the greats. “He assured us he’s done, but what a career he’s had,” Rogers said. “To be part of his last game was special. He scored runs in the morning, took the first wicket in his first over and ended the match with the last wicket it couldn’t have been scripted better.”

Siddle has also mentored young Victorian fast bowlers in recent years. With the team’s bowling coach position currently vacant there is speculation he might transition into coaching. Peter Siddle has expressed interest in coaching but admitted that while he still enjoys bowling the long hours on the field have taken a toll.

Sutherland acknowledged Siddle’s immense contribution to Victorian cricket. “I’ve tried to convince him to play another season, but he’s happy with his fairytale finish,” Sutherland said. “It’s been an honor to start my career alongside him.”

Victoria narrowly missed a spot in the Sheffield Shield final finishing just 0.27 points behind Queensland. Siddle’s impressive performance including 3-10 in the first innings helped Victoria push for a win.

Peter Siddle departure marks the end of an era in domestic cricket. Having debuted for Victoria in 2005 he has left behind a legacy of resilience, skill and dedication. He played 67 Tests for Australia and took 221 Test wickets, leaving behind achievements that fans will remember for years to come. For now fans can still watch him in action during the Big Bash League only.