World Test Champion Colin de Grandhomme retires from international cricket: I am not getting any younger

Veteran New Zealand all rounder Colin de Grandhomme has decided to call time on his career. The New Zealand all rounder made the fans aware of his decision on Wednesday, 31 August, stating this was the right time for him to step away from the game.

“I accept I’m not getting any younger and that the training is getting harder, particularly with the injuries,” de Grandhomme acknowledged.

“I also have a growing family and am trying to understand what my future looks like post-cricket. All of this has been on my mind over the past few weeks,” he further said.

An integral part of New Zealand cricket’s strong showing in the ICC tournament, de Grandhomme played a crucial part in New Zealand’s 201 World Cup campaign, even picking up the crucial wicket of Joe Root in the final. The all-rounder was in menacing from throughout the first World Test Championships, and featured in the high pressure final against India as well.

“I’ve been fortunate enough to have had the opportunity to play for the Black Caps since debuting in 2012 and I’m proud of my international career, but I feel this is the right time to finish.”

New Zealand coach Gary Stead reacted to the announcement and called de Grandhomme a crucial part of the cog.

“Colin’s been a hugely influential part of the BLACKCAPS and contributed to some of the team’s greatest achievements,” he said.

“His immense power with the bat and skills with the ball made him a real match winner and an asset to any side,” Stead further added.

“While it’s sad to see him go – we appreciate he’s at a stage in his career where he’s looking to head in a different direction and we respect that.,” the coach concluded.

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