West Australian legend Mitch Marsh has retired from Sheffield Shield cricket to focus on his commitments as the nation’s Twenty20 captain.

The news was confirmed on Monday night after Marsh returned from a rare appearance for the State in its defeat to Victoria in the shield.

Marsh had played just three times for WA in the format across the past two years and was called into last week’s four-day match as selectors eyed him for a wild-card role in the Ashes series.

The 34-year-old remains open to playing Test cricket, although it now appears unlikely he will be called into the Ashes squad with Australia 2-0 ahead.

But he made just nine and four across two innings in what was to be his final first-class appearance for the State.

The shield season now pauses for the Big Bash League, where Marsh will open the batting for Perth Scorchers, and it appears unlikely he will be called into the Ashes squad with Australia 2-0 ahead in the series.

Marsh told teammates he would retire after the defeat to Victoria on Sunday.

“It has been an honour to play Sheffield Shield cricket for WA,” Marsh said.

“Right now I am deeply committed to the group and the Scorchers. WA cricket has been a huge part of my life and I plan to give back in any way possible long into the future.”

Marsh debuted for WA as an 18-year-old in 2009. He made 2744 runs and took 82 wickets across 55 shield games, including a six-year stint as the State’s captain.

“Mitch embodies everything about what it means to be a Sheffield Shield player for Western Australia,” WA coach Adam Voges said.

“From playing alongside him to coaching him in more recent times, he’s given his all for his state.

“It’s been a privilege to watch him progress from Sheffield Shield to being a very successful player at international level for Australia.

“He’s an outstanding character on and off the field and it’s been a pleasure to play a part in his journey.”