Record-breaking wicketkeeper Watling to retire after England tour
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Following the New Zealand tour of England in June, record-breaking wicketkeeper BJ Watling will retire from all cricket.
With the Black Caps’ contracts for the 2021-22 season to be released on Friday, in which Watling will not be included due to his future unavailability, his retirement news had been expedited.
Watling, 35, will end an illustrious career as Kiwi’s all-time leader in test wicket keeping dismissals (257) and catches (249), except 10 as a fielder. He also has eight test stumpings.
“It’s the right time,” said Watling, who has recently become a father for the second time.
“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,”
His bowler-keeper catching combinations with Tim Southee (73), Trent Boult (55) and Neil Wagner (53) occupy the top three spots on the New Zealand record list.
“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.
“Although I’ve had to make this announcement ahead of the tour to England, my focus is very much on the three Tests ahead and preparing to perform in them.This tour will be a challenge on a few levels and we know as a team we will need to be at the very top of our game if we want to succeed.”
If Watling plays all three Tests on the upcoming tour, two against England (June 2-6 and 10-14) and the ICC World Test Championship Final against India on June 18-22, he will surpass Adam Parore’s record of most Tests as a New Zealand keeper at 67.
Watling has played 73 tests and also represented New Zealand in white ball cricket, appearing in 28 ODIs (2010-18) and five T20Is (2009-14).
