The star fast bowler of New Zealand cricket team Tim Southee has announced that he will retire from Test cricket after the third Test match against England this December. This match will be held at Seddon Park in Hamilton, which is his home ground.
New Zealand Cricket management said that although Southee will retire from Test matches, he is still willing to play for the Black Caps in the ICC World Test Championship (WTC) final next year, only if the team qualifies.
Career Highlights of Tim Southee
The 35-year-old Tim Southee has taken 385 wickets in 104 Test matches, making him New Zealand’s second-highest wicket-taker in Test cricket. He is also the only bowler in the world to have taken over 300 wickets in Tests, 200 in ODIs, and 100 in T20Is.
Tim Southee Statement On Retirement
While talking about his career, Southee said, “Representing New Zealand was all I ever dreamed of growing up. To play for the Black Caps for 18 years has been the greatest honor and privilege, but the time feels right to step away from the game that has given so much to me.”
Southee is one of the best swing bowler and he came into limelight during the 2008 U-19 World Cup. There, he took an impressive 17 wickets and was named Player of the Tournament. Since then, he has become a key player for New Zealand cricket and played a key role during many historic wins, including their 3-0 series victory against India in the last series.
New Zealand head coach Gary Stead also talked about the bowler and said, “Tim’s durability and resilience have been outstanding. He’s an incredibly tough competitor who cares deeply about the team, its reputation, and performances.”
