New Zealand fast bowler Tim Southee bid goodbye from international cricket on Tuesday, bringing an end to a distinguished career that spanned over 17 years. The 35-year-old’s emotional farewell came after playing a pivotal role in New Zealand’s 423-run win in the third and final Test of a home series against England at Seddon Park in Hamilton.
Southee brought an end to his career with 391 Test wickets in 203 innings, finishing second only to Hadlee, who has 431 wickets at the top of the all-time wicket-takers list for New Zealand.
In his final innings, Southee picked two wickets, which lead England to bowl out for just 234, losing by a mammoth margin. However, England won the series 2-1.
He was given a guard of honor at a farewell ceremony, which was attended by Sir Richard Hadlee.
Test career highlights
Tim Southee made his Test debut at 19 years old in 2008 against England in Napier, where he took 5 for 55 and also scored 77 off 40 balls with nine sixes in the second innings, establishing the foundation for an exceptional career. He hit 98 sixes in his Test career — fourth in the all-time list of six-hitters in Tests. He also took 85 catches.
He also contributed with the bat over time in the traditional format.
Tim Southee has scored seven half-centuries, with a highest score of 77 not out. In his final match, he also equaled Chris Gayle’s tally of 98 sixes in international cricket.
The former captain won 47 test matches, the most for a New Zealand player. His career includes 15 five-wicket hauls in Test cricket, placing him third on New Zealand’s all-time list, behind only Sir Richard Hadlee (36) and Daniel Vettori (20).
Test Captaincy
Tim Southee had been appointed full-time Test captain in December 2022, after Kane Williamson’s resignation. In his first series in charge, he led New Zealand to a 0-0 draw against Pakistan.
During his tenure, the Blackcaps achieved a remarkable victory against England in February 2023, winning by a single run after following-on in the first Test, making them only the second team in history to win a Test by that margin, after the West Indies.
Tim Southee stepped down as New Zealand’s Test captain in October 2024, following a 2-0 series defeat against Sri Lanka at Galle.
Southee’s farewell speech
In his farewell speech, Tim Southee took the opportunity to express gratitude to the New Zealand cricket fraternity and his family, acknowledging their unwavering support throughout the highs and lows of his career.
“I’d like to thank a few people. Firstly New Zealand Cricket for everything you’ve done over the last 17 years; it’s been much appreciated,” said the seamer.
“Mum and dad, Brya and the kids. They’re the ones who are with you for the ride, they see the ups and downs and I appreciate everything they’ve done for me over the years. This group of guys (teammates) made the ride so much more enjoyable, as did all the other players I’ve played with. I’ve loved every minute”, he further added.
In his emotional farewell, Tim Southee reflected on his journey, expressing immense satisfaction at his career achievements, including nearly 800 wickets.
“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 continued.
As the cheers echoed from the stands of his home ground, Southee shifted his gaze towards the crowd, taking a moment to express his heartfelt thanks to the fans who have consistently supported the team throughout the years.
“Finally I’d like to thank the fans. It’s always great to turn out in front of numbers and this week has been really special. Thank you. I look forward to watching on (as) a fan now, and all the best boys. The time I’ve had in the hat has been pretty special.”
New Zealand captain Tom Latham showered praises for the veteran fast bowler, “We’re leaving one of the greats behind. As much as we’ll miss his attributes on the field, we’ll really miss him around the dressing-room. He’s a great team man and all the guys love playing with him.”
