Tait quits one-day scene

Australia fast bowler Shaun Tait has announced his retirement from all forms of one-day cricket to focus on Twenty20.

Paceman will focus on Twenty20 career

Australia fast bowler Shaun Tait has announced his retirement from all forms of one-day cricket to focus on Twenty20. The 28-year-old has picked up numerous injuries during his career and took an indefinite break from the game in 2008, citing physical and emotional exhaustion. He returned later that year to the shorter formats but will now play only Twenty20 matches following Australia's early exit from the World Cup. "I have decided to retire from one-day cricket for both Australia and the South Australian Redbacks," he said. "This is not a decision I have taken lightly but I believe it is one that will help me to prolong my cricketing career through the many Twenty20 avenues available. "In reality, playing all year round for Australia and South Australia is not allowing my body to stand up as I would like and I do not want to be forced into retirement through career-ending injuries. "Twenty20 cricket allows me to manage my body to a level where I feel I can continue to contribute to the game for some time yet." Tait has a lucrative contract with Indian Premier League side Rajasthan Royals and will play for Surrey this summer, while he is still likely to be considered for international T20s. Cricket Australia general manager Michael Brown said: "Shaun has been an important contributor to Australia's short form cricket over the last few years. "Bowling at the speeds he generates places an unusual strain on his body and Cricket Australia respects the decision he makes today."