Perth Scorchers stalwart and hard-hitting opening batsman Michael Klinger has announced this BBL season will be his last.
Klinger, who was dropped from the struggling Scorchers line-up last month after a form slump, is poised for a recall when Perth host the Melbourne Stars on Sunday.
The 38-year-old, who has played five BBL seasons in Perth, was the competition's leading run scorer until he was overtaken by the Brisbane Heat's Chris Lynn on Friday night.
Klinger has endured a season to forget, averaging just 12.78 across nine matches. His strike rate of 83.3 has also been well below his usual lofty standards.
"This season so far has not gone to plan for both myself but more importantly the team and I'm looking forward to seeing the Scorchers get back to the top where we belong next season," he said.
Klinger has played 70 matches for the Scorchers, with his 1917 runs highlighted by an unbeaten 105 against the Renegades on Boxing Day 2014 and 21 half-centuries.
A three-time Australian Twenty20 international in 2017, Klinger will play in the T20 Blast in England later this year.
Scorchers head coach Adam Voges thanked Klinger for his service and wished him well.
"Maxy's contribution to the Perth Scorchers has been outstanding. He has played a huge part in our success in recent years," he said.
