In a spectacular end to an illustrious career, Peter Siddle, the veteran Australian fast bowler, decided to retire from first-class cricket after an unforgettable performance during Victoria's final match of the Sheffield Shield against Western Australia at the WACA. At the age of 40, Siddle capped his 20-year-red-ball career on March 18, 2025, by claiming a thrilling final wicket that secured a 34-run victory for Victoria—an outcome that dashed Western Australia’s dreams of a fourth consecutive title.
Siddle’s journey was marked by remarkable achievements, including a hefty haul of 792 first-class wickets at an impressive average of 26.20. His stellar performance in his farewell match included figures of 4 for 68 in the second innings, complementing 3 for 10 in the first, showcasing his enduring skill late into his career.
The match finished with Siddle's wicket of Corey Rocchiccioli, which was his last ball in first-class cricket. This pivotal moment in the game was not only a testament to his prowess but also a fitting closure to an extraordinary journey for the fast bowler. Having signed a two-year contract in 2023 to return from Tasmania, Siddle indicated earlier in the season that 2024-25 would be his last.
Despite efforts from Victoria captain Will Sutherland and coach Chris Rogers to entice him into another season, Siddle remained resolute in his retirement. Sutherland’s sentiment was clear: “What a career! We are still trying to convince him to play again next season, but it was a fairytale finish.” The respect held for Siddle was evident as both teams gave him a heartfelt guard of honour as he exited the field for the final time.
Throughout his career, Siddle has been a mainstay for Victoria’s bowling attack, having debuted in 2005 and played numerous vital roles in key victories. This season alone, he ended with 24 wickets at an average of 19.62 from five matches, illustrating the fact that he was still a significant asset to his team.
Siddle's professional legacy extends beyond just the Sheffield Shield. He has also contributed to the Australian Test side, capturing 221 Test wickets over 67 appearances, even celebrating a memorable hat-trick on his 26th birthday during the famed 2010/11 Ashes series against England. Making his Test debut in 2008, Siddle quickly became known for his diligence and skill, including claiming his first international wicket by dismissing the iconic Sachin Tendulkar.
Although he will retire from first-class cricket, Siddle intends to continue playing in the Big Bash League for the Melbourne Stars, having recently signed a one-year extension. Rogers, while acknowledging his friend’s decision to retire from red-ball cricket, reminisced about Siddle’s impact, stating, “He’s given so much to Victorian cricket, and even just how he’s looked after his body, to still be moving and bowling so well is incredible.”
Reflecting on his remarkable journey in cricket, Siddle’s retirement marks the end of an era not just for him but for Australian cricket as a whole, particularly the fast-bowling brigade that he was a significant part of. “To be involved in his last game is something pretty special, and to see him get some runs this morning, get the first wicket in his first over, and then get the last wicket, I don’t think you can write that script,” added Rogers.
As the cricketing community recognizes Siddle's contributions, his legacy of resilience, skill, and leadership will undoubtedly serve as inspiration to the generations of cricketers yet to come.
