Shaun Tait is a former Australian fast bowler who played in all three formats of the game for his country.
In 2017, he withdrew from all aspects of cricket. He is a right-arm medium bowler who can reliably bowl at a blistering pace.
Jeff Thomson’s slingy bowling action is similar to his.
He is a South Australian native who has played First Class cricket for the South Australian Redbacks.
Background
Shaun made his first-class debut for South Australia against West Australia in 2002 at Adelaide Oval when he was 19 years old. Tait was the top wicket-taker for South Australia, earning him a place in the permanent side.
His ability to take wickets at an incredibly low strike rate was immediately evident, and he was quickly rewarded with a place in the Australian team.
Debut
On August 25, 2005, he made his Test debut against England at Trent Bridge. Tait bowled 24 overs and took 3/97 in his first innings, which was a respectable effort.
On February 2, 2007, he made his One-Day International debut against England at the Sydney Cricket Ground. On debut and in his first One Day International, he had figures of 2/68 off 10 overs.
On December 11, 2007, Tait made his T20 debut against New Zealand at W.A.C.A. Field.
Rise to glory
In 2007, he was a key figure in Australia’s successful World Cup bid.
With 23 wickets at a strike rate of 20.30, he finished second on the list of wicket-takers.
In a Super 8s match in Antigua, he was named Man of the Match after taking 3/41 off 10 overs against old foes England. In addition, against a strong South African side in the semi-final at St Lucia, he took 4/39 off 10 overs, his best One Day International figures at the time.
Retirement
Tait announced on January 29, 2008, that he would be taking a break from cricket because he was physically and mentally drained. In 2009, Shaun Tait retired from first-class cricket. Tait announced his retirement from all forms of cricket in March 2017 due to ongoing elbow injuries.