Matthew Wade proved he’s far from finished with competitive cricket, delivering a spectacular century performance in Australia’s domestic One-Day Cup that reminded everyone why he was once a key player for his country.
The 37-year-old former Australian wicket-keeper, who now serves as assistant coach for both Gujarat Titans in the IPL and Australia’s T20 squad, turned back the clock with a brilliant 105 off just 68 deliveries against Victoria at Allan Border Field in Brisbane on Friday.
From Player to Coach, But Still Swinging
Wade called time on his international career in October 2024, transitioning seamlessly into coaching roles. However, he’s maintained his involvement in domestic cricket, representing Tasmania in the One-Day Cup and continuing with the Hobart Hurricanes in the Big Bash League.
His coaching portfolio is impressive – working with Australia’s T20 side and joining Gujarat Titans’ backroom staff after previously representing the franchise as a player during their title-winning 2022 campaign and again in 2024.
Rescue Act Turns Into Masterclass
Tasmania found themselves in trouble early in their innings against Victoria, stumbling to 135/4 within the first 20 overs after Mitchell Owen’s explosive 20-ball fifty. When Wade walked to the crease at number six, his team needed rebuilding.
Partnering with Test all-rounder Beau Webster, Wade began the recovery mission. The duo constructed a crucial 101-run stand that stabilized the innings. When Webster departed for 81 off 95 balls, leaving Tasmania at 236/5 with plenty of overs remaining, many expected a defensive approach.
Instead, Wade shifted into overdrive.
Record-Breaking Blitz
The left-handed batsman accelerated magnificently, reaching three figures in just 65 balls before eventually finishing with 105 from 68 deliveries. His innings featured eight boundaries and six maximums, struck at a strike rate of 154.41.
The century marked Wade’s first three-figure score since October 2023, when he also made exactly 105 against Queensland in the same tournament. This latest effort represented his 10th List A century.
Support came from Nikhil Chaudhary, who contributed a quickfire 67 off 49 balls at number seven, helping Tasmania post a formidable total of 381/10 with just three balls unused in their allocation.
Still Making History
Tasmania’s mammoth total became only the 12th instance of a team posting 380+ runs in Australia’s One-Day Cup history. Remarkably, Tasmania holds the tournament’s highest-ever team total of 435/9, also achieved against South Australia in the current season.
Career Highlights Live On
Wade’s domestic heroics serve as a reminder of his peak international moments. His career-defining performance came during Australia’s 2021 T20 World Cup triumph, particularly his match-winning knock of 41* off 17 balls against Pakistan in the semi-final, featuring three consecutive sixes.
That tournament success, where he served as vice-captain, remains one of Australian cricket’s most celebrated achievements in recent years.
Dual Role Success
While maintaining his playing commitments with Tasmania and Hobart Hurricanes, Wade has embraced coaching with characteristic determination. His work with Gujarat Titans contributed to their playoff appearance in IPL 2025, while his involvement with Australia’s T20 setup has been equally well-received.
His transition from player to mentor reflects his deep understanding of the game and natural leadership qualities that served him well during his 13-year international career spanning 225 matches across all formats.
Wade’s explosive century serves as proof that retirement from international cricket doesn’t mean the end of special performances – sometimes it just means finding new ways to showcase enduring talent.
