ICC World Cup 2015: Australia captain Michael Clarke to retire from ODIs after final against New Zealand

Australia captain Michael Clarke has announced his retirement from One Day International (ODIs) after the 2015 ICC World Cup final against New Zealand.

The Clarke-led side made it to the seventh World Cup final after they defeated India in the semi-final in Sydney on Thursday (26 March). He announced his retirement during a press conference on the eve of the final at the Melbourne Cricket Ground on Sunday in order to prolong his Test career.

A statement on Cricket Australia's official website read: "Australia's skipper's shock announcement that he will quit one-day internationals after the World Cup final against New Zealand."

"Australia captain Michael Clarke has announced the World Cup Final will be his last one-day international match, opting to retire from the 50-over game after his third World Cup to prolong his Test career. Clarke made the shock announcement at his official captain's press conference before tomorrow's showpiece event at the MCG."

Clarke broke the news to his teammates 10 minutes before announcing it during the press conference.

"Just so everyone is aware, tomorrow will be my last ODI game for Australia," Clarke said.

"I've just spoken to my teammates and spoken to (Cricket Australia CEO) James Sutherland and (National Selection Panel chairman) Rod Marsh and (Bupa Support Team head coach) Darren Lehmann and informed them tomorrow will be my last ODI for Australia. It's certainly been an honour and a privilege to represent my country."