New Zealand great aiming to go out on a high after revealing retirement plans
The former New Zealand Test captain will retire from international cricket as the Kiwis' all-time leading wicket-taker.
New Zealand's greatest-ever wicket-taker Tim Southee has announced plans to retire at the completion of his side's current ICC World Test Championship campaign.
Southee will retire from Test cricket at the completion of the Black Caps' upcoming home series against England, meaning his swansong may come at his home ground at Seddon Park in Hamilton just prior to Christmas.
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The 35-year-old will then decide on whether he competes in the white-ball series against Sri Lanka after Christmas and will even make himself available for next year's World Test Championship Final at Lord's should New Zealand sneak into the one-off Test decider.
World Test Championship Standings
With almost 400 international appearances for his country and the most international wickets of any bowler from New Zealand (770), Southee will retire having appeared at four ICC Men's Cricket World Cups, seven ICC Men's T20 World Cups, two Champions Trophy events and the inaugural World Test Championship Final in 2021.
Southee said the time was right to step away from Test cricket and allow the next generation of New Zealand bowlers the chance to shine.
“Representing New Zealand was all I ever dreamed of growing up,” he said.
“To play for the Black Caps 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.
“I'll always be so grateful to my family, friends, coaches, our fans and everyone involved in the game who has supported me and my career over the years.
“It's been an amazing ride and I wouldn't change a thing."
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New Zealand coach Gary Stead said Southee's record speaks for itself and the right-armer will always be considered one of New Zealand's best fast bowlers.
“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 Black Caps 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.”