New Zealand’s premier fast bowler Tim Southee brought down the curtain on a stellar international career with a resounding victory over England in the third and final Test. The veteran fast bowler, who announced his retirement prior to the series, ended his career with a memorable performance, contributing to a dominant win for the hosts.
“I guess it’s a nice way to fade off after what’s been an incredible journey”: Tim Southee
Southee expressed his gratitude for the opportunity to retire on his own terms and in front of his home crowd. He reflected on his journey, highlighting the special moments and the camaraderie he shared with his teammates.
“It’s pretty special to win by 400-odd runs against a brilliant opposition,” said Southee after the hosts thrashed England in Hamilton. “I guess it’s a nice way to fade off after what’s been an incredible journey… so yeah, an enjoyable few days and I’ll certainly miss these feelings,” he added.
“I allowed myself a couple of times to enjoy it, soak it up and it’s just been great, the three grounds, the fan following. To turn out one last time and three places which have been pretty special to me is a nice way to finish and to finish with an emphatic win was a nice way to fade-out.”
The fast bowler also acknowledged the contributions of his teammates, particularly Trent Boult and Neil Wagner, in shaping New Zealand’s bowling attack.
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“Yeah, I was at peace when I made the decision. It was probably the hardest when I was telling a few people that were close to me. And once I did that, then I was certainly at peace with the decision. The game’s been brilliant to me. It’s been everything I’ve known since I was 19 years old..So, yeah, I’ll miss it, but I’ve got 17 years of memories which I can call back on.”
“I’m just very grateful for what I’ve been able to do. The time I’ve had in the hat has been pretty special. So, as a kid, I just wanted to grow up and represent New Zealand. So, to sit here and have nearly 800 wickets, it’s pretty satisfying.”
Southee praises his current and ex-teammates
He praised the emerging talent of bowlers like Nathan Smith, Will O’Rourke, Colin de Grandhomme and Jacob Duffy, expressing confidence in their ability to carry the torch for New Zealand cricket.
“I think Nathan Smith’s shown what he’s capable of. I think Will ORourke’s an unbelievable talent. And he’s only getting better and better in his time in this team. And he’s only been around for 12 months. And I look forward to watching him take on the world. He’s a tremendous bowler, a great bloke with a very good head on his shoulders.”
“Yeah, special time, I think, as a group. Even Colin de Grandhomme’s contributions, Kyle Jamieson’s contributions to that bowling group at the time. BJ [Watling] obviously was a massive part of that. But, yeah, they’ll be memories that we’ll share forever.”
“It was a real, I guess, golden period for New Zealand cricket. And to be a part of that was pretty special. And to play alongside those two and form a pretty good friendship, which will go long beyond the game as well, is, I guess, the most satisfying part of all that. So, yeah, we’ll reflect over years to come and look back on what was an incredible journey and sharing so many great memories together.”
Southee’s retirement marks the end of an era for New Zealand cricket. His impact on the team’s success has been significant, and his contributions will be remembered for years to come.
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