New Zealand’s legendary pacer Tim Southee has announced he will bid farewell to Test cricket following the third Test against England at his home ground, Seddon Park in Hamilton, this December. New Zealand Cricket (NZC) confirmed that while Southee will retire from Test cricket, he remains open to representing the Black Caps in the ICC World Test Championship (WTC) final next year if the team qualifies.
The 35-year-old, who has amassed 385 Test wickets over 104 matches, is New Zealand’s second-highest wicket-taker in the format and is also the only bowler globally to achieve the rare feat of taking over 300 Test, 200 ODI, and 100 T20I wickets. Reflecting on 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.”
Known for his sharp swing bowling, Southee first gained international recognition in the 2008 U19 World Cup, where his standout 17-wicket haul earned him Player of the Tournament. Since then, he has become an icon in New Zealand cricket, helping the Black Caps to numerous historic victories, including India’s 3-0 whitewash in the last series.
NZC CEO Scott Weenink described Southee as a “giant of the modern New Zealand game,” commending him for his contributions over 18 years. “Tim has been a constant in the improving fortunes of the Black Caps, and he’ll be remembered as one of New Zealand’s all-time greats,” Weenink stated. “The chance to farewell one of our all-time greats will drive anticipation and hype for this series.”
Southee’s legacy extends beyond his stats; he was instrumental in New Zealand’s journey to the inaugural WTC Final in 2021, where his match-winning performance against India secured New Zealand’s historic win. While his recent form has seen mixed results, his resilience and commitment to the team have remained unwavering.
New Zealand coach Gary Stead also praised Southee’s influence, saying, “Tim’s durability and resilience have been outstanding. He’s an incredibly tough competitor who cares deeply about the team, its reputation, and performances.”
Southee will conclude his Test career alongside former captain Kane Williamson, who has returned to the squad after recovering from a groin injury, and two new players, Otago paceman Jacob Duffy and Wellington all-rounder Nathan Smith, both of whom earned their call-ups through impressive domestic performances.
For New Zealand, the upcoming England series holds added weight, both as a pivotal moment in the WTC campaign and as a farewell tour for Southee, one of the Black Caps’ finest. As selector Sam Wells noted, “It’s obviously a big series for the side in terms of the World Test Championship, and to be farewelling someone like Tim Southee only raises it up further.”
