Australian fast bowler Brett Lee has announced he's retiring from cricket.
Australian fast bowler Brett Lee. Photo: PHOTOSPORT
The 38-year-old on Thursday announced his retirement from all forms of cricket at the end of his current Big Bash League campaign.
"It's been an amazing and emotional 20 years - I've enjoyed every single moment of it," Lee said.
Lee called time on his international career in July 2012, but has been a Twenty20 regular in the years since.
He said he'd decided before starting the 2014-15 season that it was going to be his last at the Sydney Sixers, and was content with the decision.
"I'm not Benjamin Button," Lee said.
"I've certainly had a lot more fun in the last six weeks than I've ever had in my life and that's because I haven't put any pressure upon myself."
"I knew when I bowled the first ball back at training this summer that this was going to be my last season."
"I've had more comebacks than Rambo, but honestly, I'm not one of those guys that will say this is it and come back in 12 months."
Lee said he thought he could play for a few more years, but that he didn't want to.
Lee remains the equal leading wicket-taker for Australia in one-day internationals alongside Glenn McGrath, with 380 in 221 appearances at 23.36 with an economy rate of 4.76.
He also claimed 310 scalps in 76 Tests for Australia at 30.81.
The New South Welshman ranked his 1999 Test debut against India in Melbourne and playing alongside his older brother Shane in a one-day international as his greatest memories of the last two decades.
But his favourite moment in the baggy green came 10 years ago, during Australia's unforgettable Ashes series against England.
Lee will send down his final ball in either in the Sixers' final group game against cross-town rivals Sydney Thunder at the SCG next Thursday, or later if they reach the finals.
"When that last ball is bowled, I'll walk off and I'll be happy," he said.
