Tim Southee, the stalwart of New Zealand cricket, has announced his impending retirement from Test matches, a decision that marks the end of an illustrious chapter in his career. Following the upcoming three-match series against England, which will conclude at his home ground, Seddon Park in Hamilton, Southee will step away from the longest format of the game. This transition comes after an impressive 18-year journey that has seen him rise to become New Zealand’s all-time leading international wicket-taker.
Tim Southee’s career to remember
Southee’s journey began in 2008 when he made his international debut in a T20I against England. Since then, he has evolved into a key figure for the BlackCaps, playing over 100 matches in each format. With a remarkable tally of 770 international wickets, he stands as a testament to perseverance and skill. Notably, he is the only player globally to have achieved over 300 Test wickets, 200 ODI wickets, and 100 T20I wickets, showcasing his versatility and consistency across formats.
The upcoming series against England holds special significance for Southee. He expressed his heartfelt sentiments about concluding his Test career against the same opponent that marked his debut.
“Representing New Zealand was all I ever dreamed of growing up. 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. I’ll always be 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,” he stated in a New Zealand cricket media release, highlighting the emotional connection he feels towards the game and the venues where he has played. The series will kick off at Hagley Oval before moving to Basin Reserve, culminating at Seddon Park from December 13-17.
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New Zealand cricket great Tim Southee plans to finish his Test career at his home ground of Seddon Park in Hamilton against England this December. https://t.co/L0li6zMeAT
— BLACKCAPS (@BLACKCAPS) November 14, 2024
Southee’s big condition revelation over retirement
While this series is set to be his last in Test cricket, Southee has left the door open for participation in white-ball formats. He mentioned that he would make himself available for the World Test Championship final if New Zealand qualifies. His decision reflects a desire to remain involved in cricket while transitioning away from red-ball duties.
Southee’s legacy of leadership
Southee’s leadership capabilities were recognized when he took over as captain of the Test side following Kane Williamson‘s resignation. Although he stepped down after a challenging series against Sri Lanka, his contributions as a leader have been invaluable. Under his prime bowling rhythm, New Zealand achieved significant milestones, including their historic World Test Championship victory. Southee’s retirement from Test cricket signifies not just the end of an era but also celebrates a legacy of excellence and dedication to New Zealand cricket.