Perth Scorchers stalwart Michael Klinger has announced that he will retire from the Big Bash League at the end of the season.
The 38-year-old is the BBL's second all-time leading run-scorer with 1917 runs, with Brisbane Heat star Chris Lynn only eclipsing him in the Heat's win over the Scorchers on Friday night.
Klinger has been a pivotal part of the Scorchers' success after crossing from the Adelaide Strikers in 2014, helping them win two titles and reach three finals in five seasons. He made 71 not out off just 49 balls in the 2016-17 BBL final against the Sydney Sixers.
But Klinger has just endured his worst season in the BBL, scoring just 115 runs in nine innings at a strike-rate of just 83.33. He even had the misfortune of being dismissed off the seventh ball of an over against the Sydney Sixers and was dropped from the Scorchers side after a duck against the Hobart Hurricanes in the following game.
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Klinger has been recalled to the squad for Sunday night's final home game against the Melbourne Stars after Shaun Marsh was ruled out with hamstring tightness but he has announced this will be his swansong.
"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," Klinger said.
"I have fantastic memories of my time with the Scorchers and I'd like to thank my teammates, coaching and support staff and all our fantastic fans for making my time so meaningful and enjoyable at this great club. Also, a huge thank you to my family for their continued unconditional support.
"I'm looking forward to what the future holds for me in cricket either on or off the field."
Klinger is committed to play another T20 Blast season with Gloucestershire in the UK this year. It will be his seventh T20 Blast season at the club. He will captain the side and fill a role as batting consultant.
Scorchers coach and former teammate Adam Voges said Klinger had made an enormous impact on the club.
"Maxy's contribution to the Perth Scorchers has been outstanding," Voges said. "On the field his record speaks for itself and he has played a huge part in our success in recent years.
"Off the field you will not meet a nicer person who always puts the team's needs ahead of his own."