New Zealand all-rounder Scott Styris has announced his retirement from international cricket after serving the Black Caps for more than a decade.
Styris had earlier retired from Tests in 2008, but continued playing one-day and Twenty20 internationals for New Zealand. He was also a part of the New Zealand team that reached the semi-final of the 2011 World Cup.
The all-rounder, who will turn 36 next month, is the sixth-highest run-getter in ODIs for Black Caps, scoring 4483 runs from 188 matches.
He scored four ODI centuries and took 137 wickets in his 12-year long playing career, apart from representing his nation in 29 Tests.
The 35-year-old’s retirement comes at a time when New Zealand has just appointed a new captain in Ross Taylor.
“I have thoroughly enjoyed representing my country in the international cricketing environment. It has been an honour and a pleasure to play for the Black Caps alongside so many quality players over the years and to have been a part of many key moments during that time” the all-rounder said.
“Not being on the international circuit means more time at home and I’m really looking forward to spending more time with my family,” the cricketer insisted.
Styris, who represented Chennai Super Kings in the fourth edition of the Indian Premier League (IPL) just after the World Cup, said he intended to continue playing Twenty20 cricket in domestic competitions.
“I really enjoy the T20 format of the game and see it as a way to stay involved in cricket for another year or two if I can,” the cricketer was quoted as saying by ‘New Zealand Herald’.
Though New Zealand has had a disappointing run in the recent past, Styris has been part of some important triumphs.
The right-hander noted winning the Champions Trophy in 2000, and scoring a hundred on Test debut in a series that turned out to be New Zealand’s first victory in the West Indies, as the highlights of his career.
“Winning the Champions Trophy in Kenya was awesome given it was also the first time New Zealand won an ICC event.
It was also memorable to score a hundred and take wickets on my Test debut, knowing it contributed to a historic series win.”
New Zealand Cricket CEO Justin Vaughan said he was aware Styris’ departure was imminent for some time, and that the team would miss his consistency.
“Scott has been one of our most consistent performers and a real go-to man in big games,” Vaughan said.
“He was someone who always seemed to play his best under pressure. His competitive attitude and the leadership he demonstrated while in the New Zealand team will be missed.
“However, we support his decision to retire from international cricket. It has been signalled for some time,” Vaughan added.
