Former Test opening batsman Simon Katich has announced his retirement from first-class cricket in Australia.
Katich was axed by Australia after the 2010-2011 Ashes series defeat in Australia and was stripped of the NSW captaincy last year in the domestic competition.
The 36-year-old is currently playing with Hampshire in the English County competition and is committed to play for the Perth Scorchers in the Champions League Twenty20 in October.
Katich released a statement through Cricket Australia, citing commitments to his young family as the reason for his retirement.
Through the statement, Cricket Australia said Katich wished to thank the WACA and NSW Cricket associations for "providing wonderful cricketing environments and amazing opportunities".
"He wishes to thank them all (coaches and players) for the camaraderie and support over the last 16 years and for the chance to play in winning teams," the statement read.
"With a young family and a desire for an extended time at home, Simon has decided it is time to reassess his priorities."
Katich played 56 Tests from 2001 to his last appearance against England in Adelaide in December 2010.
His demotion from the Test team was highly controversial and his tense relationship with Australia skipper Michael Clarke was played out heavily in the media.
Katich scored 4188 runs in Tests at an average of 45.03 with 10 centuries. He made 44 one-day international appearances for 1324 runs at 35.78.
He began his Sheffield Shield career with Western Australia but joined New South Wales in the 2002-2003 season and went on to score 8807 runs for both states at 55.39 with 26 centuries.
"Simon's contribution to New South Wales cricket was quite simply outstanding,'' Cricket New South Wales chairman Harry Harinath said.
"Not only was he a superb batsman, with a state and international record to rival the best, but he was a brilliant leader who was respected by all who played with him.
"He will be a tremendous loss to the NSW Blues, both as a player and a man.
"We wish him all the best in his future endeavours and thank him for everything that he has contributed to cricket within this state.''
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