Shane Watson ends Big Bash League career with Sydney Thunder

Shane Watson has called time on his professional cricket career in Australia by retiring from the Big Bash League's Sydney Thunder.

Watson retired from international cricket four years ago but he will continue to play in New South Wales and make himself available for selected overseas Twenty20 tournaments.

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The 37-year-old is currently playing in the IPL for Chennai Super Kings and scored 96 in his most recent innings.

"I want to thank everyone from the bottom of my heart who has been involved with the Sydney Thunder over the last four seasons," Watson said.

"I will most definitely miss support that the club gets from the Thunder Nation. Their unwavering support through the ups and downs inspires everyone and I will cherish that support deeply.

"Finally, to my team-mates, I have played with so many great people and cricketers at the club and I sincerely wish everyone the absolute best for the upcoming seasons."

Watson's impact on Australian cricket - he played more than 300 times for his country in all formats - has been praised by Cricket Australia chief executive Kevin Roberts.

Roberts said: "Shane Watson was one of the most exciting short-form players ever to grace a cricket field.

"Talented, skillful and powerful, Shane was a devastating batsman at his best.

"In a career which spanned almost two decades Shane made a major contribution to Australian cricket firstly at international level and then in domestic cricket as a significant contributor to the Big Bash."