"Every time I walk out on the field, I'd have him in every team I've played in so, if that's the decision he makes I can only wish him all the best. Hopefully now we'll be able to spend a bit more time together off the field," said the former pacer.

Former player Mark Waugh was in awe of Hayden's mental strength and said, "He was a tough player and mentally very strong. He had his own game and he wasn't too concerned about what other people thought of it but in the end it worked for him.

"He played over 100 Test matches for Australia after waiting a very long time to get in there initially, so not only physically a big effort to play 100 Tests but mentally to come back from challenges, especially early on in his career," Waugh said.

Hayden's wife Kellie was happy with her husband's decision and said, "I'm really excited, it's going to be great. It's also sad, it's been a great journey. I'm glad he's made the decision."