Fri Nov 15 23:19:29 UTC 2024: **New Zealand Bowling Legend Tim Southee Announces Retirement**
**Wellington, November 15, 2024** – New Zealand cricket icon Tim Southee has announced his retirement from international cricket, effective after the upcoming home test series against England in December. The 35-year-old, second only to Richard Hadlee in New Zealand’s Test wicket-taking charts with 385 scalps, will play his final match in the third Test at his home ground in Hamilton.
Southee, who recently stepped down as Test captain, boasts an illustrious career spanning 18 years. He has played over 100 Test matches, alongside 161 ODIs and 126 T20 Internationals, achieving the rare feat of 300+ Test, 200+ ODI, and 100+ T20 wickets. His debut Test against England in 2008 saw him take 5/55 in the first innings and score an unbeaten 77 in the second.
“Representing New Zealand was all I ever dreamed of,” Southee said in a statement. “To play for the Black Caps for 18 years has been the greatest honour and privilege, but the time feels right to step away.”
Black Caps coach Gary Stead praised Southee’s unwavering commitment and resilience throughout his career, highlighting his ability to perform under pressure and his remarkable durability.
The three-match Test series against England begins in Christchurch on November 28th, with the final match in Hamilton commencing December 14th. Southee’s retirement will mark the end of an era for New Zealand cricket.
First Piper 