New Zealand’s legendary pacer Tim Southee has officially announced his retirement from Test cricket, marking the end of an illustrious 18-year career. Southee, 35, will play his final Test match on home soil at Seddon Park in Hamilton during the upcoming series against England. While he is stepping back from the longest format, he has stated he will make himself available for the ICC World Test Championship (WTC) final next year if New Zealand qualifies.

Southee made his Test debut in 2008 as a 19-year-old against England, the same team he will face in his final series. Reflecting on his journey, Southee shared, “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. Test cricket holds a special place in my heart, so it’s meaningful to end my career against the team it began with, on grounds that hold so many memories.”

Throughout his career, Southee has amassed 385 Test wickets in 104 matches, placing him as New Zealand’s second-highest Test wicket-taker, behind only Sir Richard Hadlee. Globally, he’s the only bowler to achieve 300+ Test, 200+ ODI, and 100+ T20I wickets—a remarkable feat underscoring his versatility. With 770 international wickets across formats, he surpasses New Zealand greats like Daniel Vettori (696), securing his legacy as New Zealand’s most prolific bowler.

Southee’s talent first came into the spotlight during the 2008 U19 World Cup, where his 17-wicket haul earned him the Player of the Tournament title. Over the years, he has become an instrumental figure in New Zealand cricket, leading the bowling attack across all three formats and helping the team to several historic wins, including a 3-0 whitewash against India in 2023.

Southee’s career is highlighted by several standout performances, including a career-best 7 for 33 against England in the 2015 World Cup, where he propelled New Zealand to their first of two consecutive finals. In 2021, his four-wicket haul in the WTC final against India at Southampton was vital in clinching New Zealand’s inaugural ICC silverware. Known for his unexpected batting prowess, he has also scored 93 sixes in Tests, second only to Brendon McCullum among New Zealanders.

Scott Weenink, CEO of New Zealand Cricket, commended Southee’s dedication and impact, saying, “Tim has been a constant in the improving fortunes of the Black Caps. He’s given his heart and soul to New Zealand cricket, and his farewell will undoubtedly be a special moment for fans and players alike.”

Head coach Gary Stead praised Southee’s resilience and commitment: “Tim’s durability and resilience have been outstanding. He’s an incredibly tough competitor who cares deeply about the team, its reputation, and performances.”

As Southee prepares for his final Test series, he has yet to decide on his future in white-ball internationals, though he remains available for domestic and franchise cricket. With the upcoming England series being crucial for New Zealand's WTC standings, it also provides fans the opportunity to bid farewell to one of their finest cricketers.