Callum Ferguson to retire from first-class cricket after next Sheffield Shield match

Callum Ferguson will retire from Sheffield Shield cricket after South Australia's next match against Queensland.

He will continue to captain Sydney Thunder in the BBL and intends to make himself available for South Australia's Marsh One-Day campaign which is expected to be played in the latter part of the domestic season early next year.

With one game to go in first-class cricket, Ferguson sits on 9278 runs at 36.81 of which 8210 have come in the Sheffield Shield. It was confirmed on Thursday, when Ferguson made his announcement, that he would be in the XI to face Queensland.

He missed South Australia's opening match of this season before returning for the game against Tasmania where he made 29 and 40 but he bagged pair against Victoria in round three.

"I'd like to thank my family, my parents Pauline and Jim, and my wife Rhiannon who have supported me through the journey," Ferguson said. "I also have great gratitude for all my team-mates, coaches, SACA Members and fans who have made my time in the baggy red most enjoyable, and I have always been proud to play for this great State.

"I wish nothing but the best for the team which I believe has the talent and drive to take us to a Shield in the years to come. I'm looking forward to playing in the Marsh Cup later in the season and continuing to help mentor our young exciting players"

Ferguson played one Test for Australian in 2016, against South Africa in Hobart, where he made 3 and 1 - being run out in the first innings - and was one of a group of players to pay the price for Australia's crushing defeat.

James Pyke, the South Australia chairman of selectors, said: "Callum has been an integral part of the South Australian system for many years and he should be extremely proud of all that he has done for cricket in this State.

"His performances on the ground have been of the highest calibre and most importantly he has been a team member of great character and strength. His leadership has been excellent, and we hope Callum's impact will be reflected in a new era of players in the future.

"We wish Callum the best and look forward to watching him guide our younger players and to help them build an established career just as he has done."