Tim Southee to Retire After England Test Series

Tim Southee, New Zealand's leading wicket-taker, has announced his retirement from Test cricket following the upcoming series against England at home. The 35-year-old bowler, who debuted in 2008, has taken 385 wickets in 104 Tests, ranking second after Richard Hadlee in New Zealand's history. While he plans to retire after the third Test in Hamilton, he may return for the World Test Championship final at Lord's in 2025, should New Zealand qualify. Southee expressed gratitude for his 18-year career, highlighting the significance of the series against England, the team he first faced in his Test debut. Despite stepping down from red-ball cricket, Southee's white-ball future remains undecided, and he will continue in domestic and franchise cricket. His retirement marks the end of an era for New Zealand cricket, with Coach Gary Stead praising his resilience and contribution to the team.