Former Australia Test captain Tim Paine receives a guard of honor after retiring from all forms of cricket

Former Australia Test captain Tim Paine has surprised viewers by announcing his retirement from all-cricket.

After the end of Tasmania’s Sheffield Shield game against Queensland at the Bellerive Oval in Hobart, the wicketkeeper was given a guard of honor as he reluctantly exited the game.

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Paine skippered 23 tests in Australia between early 2018 and 2021 and contested a total of 35 tests.

He became Australia’s 46th Test skipper after Steve Smith was removed from Australia’s 2018 tour of South Africa following the infamous ball-tampering scandal.

Paine, who made his Lords debut against Pakistan in 2010, averaged 32.63 in test matches with a peak score of 92 and made 157 layoffs from behind the stumps.

He also played 35 one-day internationals for Australia.

The 38-year-old’s final game was a muted one as the Tasmania and Queensland captains agreed an early finish at tea on day four.

Queensland opener Bryce Street hit an unbeaten 102 to help his side go 1-184 – still 248 runs from victory when the game was declared a tie.

Hobart-born Paine represented Tasmania for over 18 years after making his debut in 2005, making 153 top-flight appearances.

“He was a phenomenal player, it’s an incredible effort to have the longevity that he’s had,” said Tasmania captain Jordan Silk.

“I’m sure a lot of people will say there has never been a goalkeeper as good as Tim Paine in Australia.

“Considering his age, the standard of posture he was able to maintain was truly incredible.

“He’s a great example for all our guys with his work ethic.

“We have been incredibly blessed down here and wish him well in whatever he chooses to do in the future.”

His resignation stunned commentators.

“This looks awfully goodbye to Tim Paine… wow what a moment,” they said.

“It looks like it is. No trouble. That was the Paine way.”