Australian cricketer, Shane Warne, today shelved any retirement plans by advising the Australian Cricket Board (ACB) that he is available for Australian selection.

ACB Chief Executive, Malcolm Speed, said that following several discussions with Warne over recent days, Shane today confirmed that he wanted to continue playing for Australia.

"Shane’s decision to make himself available for selection is very welcome. He is a proven match winner and world class bowler.

"Having seen Shane’s World Cup performances, I’m not sure that too many batsmen around the world would share our delight but I can only say that we are looking forward to seeing him playing for Australia for years to come," said Mr Speed.

Warne, who is on holiday in Queensland, said that he had reached his decision only after lengthy discussions with his family and close friends.

"Over the past two weeks, my wife Simone has been fantastic, as have all my family and close friends.

"In the end, I’m sure I would have missed the game too much if I had retired. I’m only 29 and I think I have plenty to give to cricket as a senior player before retiring.

I don’t usually set myself goals, but I have now, particularly in Test cricket and I am determined to achieve them.

"Being a part of our great win in the World Cup was just the tonic to get me thinking positively again.

I love the camaraderie of the team both in Test and one-day arenas and I’m looking forward to playing against Sri Lanka if selected," said Warne

Hohns and his co-selctors, Allan Border and Andrew Hilditch, will now finalise the squad for the Sri Lankan tour which will be announced by the Australian Cricket Board early next week

© 1999 Australian Cricket Board