img source:https://www.hindustantimes.com/
New Zealand wicketkeeper-batsman BJ Watling to retire after UK tour
New Zealand Cricket (NZC) on Tuesday announced that wicketkeeper-batsman BJ Watling will be retiring from international cricket after the tour of England. The 35-year-old has been a stalwart of the Test side since debuting in 2009 as an opening batsman, going on to establish himself as a world-class keeper-batsman and claiming numerous records in his 73 Tests to date.
With the Black-Caps contracts for 2021-22 due to be released on Friday, in which Watling will not be included due to his future unavailability, his retirement news has been speeded up.
The Northern Districts gloves-man had been pondering his options for a while but settled on his decision to retire at the end of the just-completed home summer.
“It's the right time,” said Watling, who has recently become a father for the second time.
“It's been a huge honor to represent New Zealand and in particular, wear the Test baggy. Test cricket is the pinnacle of the game and I've loved every minute of being out there in the whites with the boys. Sitting in the changing rooms having a beer with the team after five days' toil is what I will miss the most. I have played with some great players and made many good mates. I have also had plenty of help along the way for which I will always be grateful,” he added.
