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New Zealand cricket icon Tim Southee has confirmed that the three-Test series against England this December will mark his retirement from red-ball cricket—unless the BLACKCAPS qualify for the ICC World Test Championship (WTC) final. If New Zealand makes it to the WTC final, the 36-year-old pacer is prepared to extend his illustrious career to help the team in their pursuit of the title.

A HISTORIC FAREWELL

Southee, New Zealand's all-time leading wicket-taker with 770 international wickets across all formats, announced that the December series, which will take place at his home ground of Seddon Park in Hamilton, would be his farewell to Test cricket—unless a spot in the WTC final was secured. After the England series, Southee will consider whether he has one final white-ball tour with New Zealand, potentially against Sri Lanka after Christmas.

AN EXTRAORDINARY CAREER

A veteran of 391 international matches, Southee's career has been marked by unparalleled consistency and impressive all-round skills. He is the only player in history to claim over 300 Test wickets, 200 ODI wickets, and 100 T20I wickets, an extraordinary feat that underscores his versatility and longevity.

Having been part of New Zealand's historic Test series win in India earlier this year, Southee will turn 36 just as the third Test against England begins. Reflecting on his decision, he expressed that stepping away from the game was a difficult but necessary choice.

A FAREWELL FILLED WITH GRATITUDE

"Representing New Zealand was all I ever dreamed of growing up,” he said. “To play for the BLACKCAPS for 18 years has been the greatest honour and privilege, but now feels like the right time to step away. Test cricket has a special place in my heart, and playing this final series against England—the team I faced in my Test debut—on three grounds that hold significant memories for me, feels like the perfect way to end my career."

Southee also took the opportunity to express his gratitude to his family, coaches, teammates, and supporters who have backed him throughout his journey.

"I’ll always be grateful for the support I’ve received over the years," he said. "It’s been an amazing ride, and I wouldn’t change a thing."

A LEGACY OF MENTORSHIP

Looking to the future, Southee expressed his excitement about New Zealand's emerging fast bowling talent. "I’ve really enjoyed working with the young bowlers coming through, and I’m excited to see them step up. It’s now their turn to take the team forward, and I’ll always be there to support them," he added.

RECOGNITION FROM NZC AND FELLOW PLAYERS

New Zealand Cricket (NZC) CEO Scott Weenink lauded Southee's contribution to the game, acknowledging his pivotal role in New Zealand's rise as a cricketing power over the past decade. "Tim has been a constant in the improving fortunes of the BLACKCAPS and will be remembered as a giant of the modern New Zealand game," Weenink said. "His commitment to the team has been extraordinary, and the opportunity to farewell one of our greatest will only heighten the excitement surrounding the England Test series."

Gary Stead, New Zealand's head coach, praised Southee's remarkable durability and his ability to rise to big occasions. "Tim’s impact on New Zealand cricket is immeasurable," Stead said. "He’s been a fierce competitor, and his commitment to the team and its success has been unwavering. While we’ll miss him in the team, it’s time for him to spend time with his family, and I’m sure he’ll look back on his career with pride."

THE END OF AN ERA

Southee, a quintessential right-arm outswing bowler, has been a key figure for New Zealand across all three formats since his debut in 2008. He has played in four ICC Cricket World Cups, seven T20 World Cups, two Champions Trophy tournaments, and appeared in a WTC Final. His iconic partnership with Trent Boult has formed one of the most successful new-ball combinations in cricket history, with the duo combining for 833 international wickets in 177 matches for New Zealand.

As he prepares for what will be his final series on home soil, Southee's career remains a testament to perseverance, skill, and dedication, solidifying his place as one of New Zealand's all-time cricketing greats.