Shaun Marsh retires from professional cricket after stellar Renegades half century

Veteran batsman Shaun Marsh has announced his retirement from professional cricket.

The 40-year-old will hang up the boots after the Melbourne Renegades final BBL match of the season next Wednesday against the Sydney Thunder at the Sydney Showgrounds.

Marsh will step away from the game after a stellar unbeaten 64 for the Renegades in their six-wicket win over the Melbourne Stars on Saturday night.

LIVE UPDATES: Djoker's stunning Demon prediction

ULTIMATE GUIDE: Everything to know for Australian Open 2024

LIVESTREAM GUIDE: How to watch the Australian Open 2024

"I have loved playing for the Renegades, I've met some great people over the last five years and the friendships I've made will last a lifetime," Marsh said in a Renegades statement on Sunday.

"This playing group is special. They've been amazing to me, amazing teammates and even better friends."

The veteran began his BBL career with his hometown side, the Perth Scorchers, where he played 40 games.

He also was part of the WA side's back-to-back BBL championships in 2021/2022 and 2022/2023.

"I owe a lot to the Scorchers, I've got some fond memories of playing in Perth and really enjoyed my time there," Marsh said.

"The back-to-back titles are up there for me as the most enjoyable moments I've experienced on a cricket field."

Marsh retired from domestic cricket last summer after he debuted in 2008. He played for Australia in a commendable 38 Test matches, 73 ODIs and 15 T20s.

2023-24 Summer of Cricket in pictures: Kraigg Brathwaite delivers powerful 'message' for more Test cricket

2023-24 Summer of Cricket in pictures: Kraigg Brathwaite delivers powerful 'message' for more Test cricket

With the Renegades unable to make the finals, the left-handed batter will be part of their final match against the Thunder on Wednesday.

Marsh is the second Renegades retiree this season, with Victorian cult hero Aaron Finch also announcing his retirement come season's end.