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Tim Southee, New Zealand’s highest wicket-taker, will retire from Test cricket after the series against England in December at his home ground, Seddon Park.
Tim Southee to Bid Farewell to Test Cricket
Tim Southee, New Zealand’s all-time highest wicket-taker, has announced that he will retire from Test cricket following the upcoming series against England in December.
The series will take place at his home ground, Seddon Park in Hamilton, marking the end of an illustrious career in red-ball cricket.
Despite his retirement from Tests, Southee has made it clear that he will remain available for New Zealand if they qualify for the ICC World Test Championship (WTC) Final next June.
Southee’s retirement is a significant moment for New Zealand cricket, as he has been an integral part of the BlackCaps for over 18 years.
“Representing New Zealand was all I ever dreamed of growing up,” Southee said. “To play for the BlackCaps for 18 years has been the greatest honour and privilege, but the time feels right to now step away from the game that has given so much to me.
“Test cricket holds a special place in my heart, so to be able to play such a big series against the same opponent my Test career began against all those years ago, and on three grounds that are incredibly special to me, seems the perfect way to end my time in the black cap.”
His retirement will mark the conclusion of one of the most successful careers in New Zealand’s cricket history.
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A Legendary Career in Test Cricket
Southee first came to prominence in 2008 with an exceptional 17-wicket performance at the U19 World Cup.
Since then, he has been a mainstay in New Zealand’s bowling attack, making appearances in four ODI World Cups, seven T20 World Cups, and two Champions Trophy tournaments. .
He has claimed 385 wickets in 104 Test matches, making him New Zealand’s second-highest wicket-taker in red-ball cricket.
His consistency, leadership, and remarkable ability to deliver in high-pressure situations have earned him numerous accolades and respect both at home and internationally.
Southee’s performance in New Zealand’s historic 3-0 whitewash of India in India further solidified his legacy as one of the best fast bowlers of his generation.
A Farewell to an Iconic Career
NZC Chief Executive Scott Weenink praised Southee for his significant contributions to New Zealand’s cricketing success.
“Tim has been a constant in the improving fortunes of the BlackCaps and he’ll be remembered as a giant of the modern New Zealand game,” he said.
“From the moment he exploded on to the Test scene against England in Napier eighteen summers ago, he’s given his heart and soul to playing for New Zealand and has helped the team achieve some unthinkable results.
“There’s already unprecedented interest in this England Test tour and I’m sure the chance to farewell one of our all-time greats will only further drive the anticipation and hype for this series. Tim has an incredible bank of experience and knowledge of the game and while he may have called time on his playing career, I’d be surprised if we don’t see him in another capacity at some stage in the future.”
Gary Stead commended Southee for his durability, resilience, and commitment to the team.
“Tim’s durability and resilience has been outstanding,” Stead said. “He’s an incredibly tough competitor who gets himself up for big occasions and is rarely injured. Tim cares deeply about the team, its reputation and performances, and he will be missed within the BlackCaps environment. He now deserves some time with his family and I’m sure he will reflect very positively in years to come about his impact and achievements in the game.”
Southee has yet to decide whether he will continue his white-ball career after the Christmas tour of Sri Lanka but has expressed interest in continuing with domestic and franchise cricket in the future.
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