Watling to retire from all cricket

Wicket-keeper BJ Watling has announced that he will retire from the sport after the upcoming tour to England.

Watling has been capped 73 times in Test cricket to date and played the last of his 28 ODIs in 2018.

Debuting for New Zealand as an old school opener in 2009, Watling went on to become one of the finest wicket-keepers in the game, wearing the gloves in 65 matches.

If he plays both Tests against England and the ICC World Test Championship final in June he will become New Zealand’s most-capped Test wicket-keeper of all time, breaking Adam Parore’s 67-match record.

Watling already has a host of Test records to his name for New Zealand. His 257 dismissals for the country are the most completed by a Black Caps keeper, 56 more than second-placed Parore. He has Brendon McCullum covered for the most runs by a New Zealand Test keeper, with 3381 to the former captain’s 2803. He also boasts the most Test tons by a New Zealand keeper (seven) and the highest individual score (205).

“It’s the right time,” Watling said. “It’s been a huge honour to represent New Zealand and in particular wear the Test baggy. Test cricket really 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’ll miss the most.

“I’ve played with some great players and made many good mates. I’ve also had plenty of help along the way for which I’ll always be grateful.

“My wife Jess has been a constant source of stability and support and I’m certainly looking forward to being able to spend more time with her and the kids. I also owe a big thanks to my mum for steering me in the right direction early on and always being there for me.”

Watling added he was focused on finishing his career in style, with his retirement announcement expedited by the impending release of New Zealand’s contract list on Friday._ICC Cricket