Aaron Finch announces ODI retirement, backs Steve Smith as new leader

Aaron Finch plans to fight on into next month’s Twenty20 World Cup, despite the white-ball captain announcing his retirement from one-day cricket.

“It has been a fantastic ride with some incredible memories,” Finch said. “I have been extremely fortunate to be a part of some brilliant one-day sides. Equally, I have been blessed by all those I have played with and the many people behind the scenes.“It is time now to give a new leader the best possible opportunity to prepare for and win the next World Cup. I thank all of those who have helped and supported my journey to this point.”

Out of form and with his spot in the side in doubt, Finch, 35, confirmed Sunday’s ODI against New Zealand would be his last in the format for Australia.

“Being a bit over 12 months out from the 50-over World Cup, I thought the timing was right now,” Finch told reporters in Cairns.

“I could have tried to play another series - the series against England post World Cup - and that would have been a bit of a fairy tale finishing at the MCG, but I think that’s never been my style to be self-indulgent in any kind of way.”

Finch still intends to lead Australia’s charge in the T20 format, with Cricket Australia confirming he plans to lead the country in next month’s world title defence.

“Aaron is an enormously gifted and determined player whose outstanding deeds with the bat have been matched by his strong and inspiring leadership,” Cricket Australia CEO Nick Hockley said. “His decision to step aside from the ODI captaincy now is typical of his selfless approach to the game.“I’m delighted Aaron will lead the Australian team into the forthcoming ICC Men’s T20 World Cup where his leadership, experience and tactical nous will be integral to the defence of