Tim Southee to Retire from Test Cricket

New Zealand cricket legend Tim Southee is set to bid farewell to Test cricket at his home ground, Seddon Park in Hamilton, during the upcoming series against England this December. However, the BlackCaps’ highest wicket-taker in international cricket has left the door open for a return if New Zealand qualifies for the ICC World Test Championship (WTC) Final in June next year.

Reflecting on his career, Southee described representing New Zealand as a lifelong dream come true. He expressed gratitude for his 18 years in the BlackCaps jersey, calling it the greatest honour of his life.

"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," Southee said.

A Career of Unparalleled Achievements

Southee first gained attention at the 2008 U19 World Cup, where his exceptional 17-wicket haul earned him the Player of the Tournament title. Over the next 18 years, he became a cornerstone of New Zealand’s bowling attack across all formats. His illustrious career includes appearances in four ODI World Cups, seven T20 World Cups, two Champions Trophy tournaments, and the inaugural WTC Final, where he claimed a memorable five-wicket haul in Southampton.

With 385 Test wickets in 104 matches, Southee is New Zealand’s second-highest Test wicket-taker, trailing only Sir Richard Hadlee. He is also the only bowler in cricket history to achieve the remarkable feat of 300+ Test wickets, 200+ ODI wickets, and 100+ T20I wickets.

Most recently, Southee played a pivotal role in New Zealand's historic 3-0 series sweep over India in India—an accomplishment no visiting team had achieved since 2012-13. Before the series, Southee stepped down as Test captain, passing the leadership baton to Tom Latham.

Tributes to a Modern Great

New Zealand Cricket (NZC) chief executive Scott Weenink hailed Southee as one of the nation’s all-time greats, crediting him with elevating the BlackCaps' red-ball success. Weenink highlighted Southee’s unwavering commitment to the team since his explosive debut against England in Napier 18 years ago. He noted that Southee’s farewell match would add excitement to the already highly anticipated England series, expressing hope that Southee’s expertise would continue to benefit the game in the future.

Head coach Gary Stead also commended Southee’s durability, resilience, and ability to perform on the biggest stages. He emphasised the veteran seamer’s deep dedication to the team and his impact on New Zealand cricket, acknowledging that Southee’s absence would leave a void in the BlackCaps setup.

What’s Next for Southee?

While Southee has yet to decide on continuing his white-ball international career, including the post-Christmas tour of Sri Lanka, he has confirmed his availability for domestic and franchise cricket. 

As Southee prepares to close this remarkable chapter, his legacy as a cricketing giant will remain etched in the history of New Zealand cricket.