Xavier Doherty, a former Australian cricketer known for his left-arm spin bowling, has transitioned to a new career in carpentry following his retirement from cricket. Doherty made his mark in cricket with a career that spanned over a decade and a half. He debuted in first-class and List A cricket in the 2001-02 season and was a significant part of Australia’s cricket landscape until his retirement.
During his cricket career, Doherty played for teams like Tasmania, Hobart Hurricanes, and Melbourne Renegades. His international career for Australia included four Test matches and 60 One Day Internationals (ODIs). In Tests, he took seven wickets, while in ODIs, he claimed 55 wickets. His best bowling figures in ODIs were 4/28. Doherty was also a member of the Australian squad that won the 2015 Cricket World Cup, though he played only one game in the tournament.
After retiring from cricket in 2017, Doherty faced uncertainty about his future career path. He explored various opportunities, including landscaping and office work, before settling on carpentry. He is currently three-quarters of the way through a carpentry apprenticeship and has expressed enjoyment in his new profession, particularly appreciating the outdoor work and the chance to learn new skills.
Doherty’s journey from cricket to carpentry is an example of the diverse paths athletes can take after their sports careers. His story highlights the importance of adaptability and finding new passions in life.