A distinguished international career concluded at Seddon Park in Hamilton, as Tim Southee bid farewell to New Zealand cricket by contributing to a significant victory over England in his final appearance for the Black Caps. The 36-year-old ended a remarkable 16-year journey, during which he played a pivotal role in New Zealand's most successful era on the international cricket stage.

In his last innings of the Crowe-Thorpe Trophy, Southee claimed the wickets of Ben Duckett and Jacob Bethell, thereby concluding his career with an impressive total of 391 Test wickets. He leaves the sport as New Zealand's leading wicket-taker across all formats, amassing 776 wickets in 394 matches.

Southee represented New Zealand over 100 times in each of the three formats, contributing to the team's numerous appearances in ICC finals, including their historic victory in the inaugural World Test Championship in 2021.

Following the match, Southee addressed the crowd at Seddon Park in a heartfelt and emotional farewell. “I would like to express my gratitude to several individuals. First and foremost, New Zealand Cricket for all your support over the past 17 years; it has been greatly appreciated,” he stated.

He continued by acknowledging his family: “Mum and Dad, Brya, and the kids. They are the ones who accompany you on this journey, witnessing both the highs and lows, and I am thankful for everything they have done for me throughout the years.”

Southee also expressed his appreciation for his teammates, many of whom have been by his side throughout his career. “This group of players has made the journey far more enjoyable, as have all the others I have played alongside. I have cherished every moment.”

Southee Expresses Appreciation to Fans

Southee concluded his illustrious career with the same team against which it commenced, having made his debut against England in February 2008 during a T20 match, followed by his Test debut in Napier a month later. He began his professional journey with an impressive five-wicket haul in his inaugural innings, claiming the notable wickets of Michael Vaughan, Andrew Strauss, and Kevin Pietersen. In recognition of his final international appearance, England's team in Hamilton honoured Southee with a guard of honour.

During that Test, he achieved a remarkable score of 77 not out off just 40 balls, marking his highest score in Test cricket, which included the first nine of an impressive total of 98 sixes throughout his Test career. Southee finishes his tenure just shy of the top three for the most sixes hit in Tests, trailing Adam Gilchrist by two and former teammate Brendon McCullum by nine. In his last Test match, he hit three spectacular sixes, surpassing Jacques Kallis and equaling Chris Gayle.

In his farewell, he expressed gratitude to the fans, stating, "It’s always great to turn out in front of numbers and this week has been special. Thank you. I look forward to watching on as a fan now, and all the best boys." This marked the conclusion of a remarkable chapter in New Zealand cricket history, celebrating one of its most esteemed players.

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