Colin de Grandhomme: New Zealand all-rounder retires from int’l cricket

Wellington: New Zealand all-rounder Colin de Grandhomme has announced retirement from international cricket on Wednesday. The country's apex cricket board shared the news on social media.

Colin de Grandhomme quit international cricket after being unexpectedly drafted to play in Australia‘s T20 Big Bash League (BBL) around the new year. 

The New Zealand Cricket (NZC) confirmed the development through an official release, stating that the cricketer made his decision after discussions with the country’s cricket board and hence, has been released from his central contract.

BLACKCAPS and @ndcricket all-rounder Colin de Grandhomme has announced his retirement from international cricket. #CricketNation https://t.co/IfY45v2Wbj

— BLACKCAPS (@BLACKCAPS) August 31, 2022

Speaking about his retirement, De Grandhomme said several factors played a part in his decision. 

“I accept that I am not getting any younger and that the training is getting harder, particularly with the injuries. 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,” De Grandhomme was quoted as saying. 

“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.

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

The 36-year-old retires with an impressive record, especially in the Tests. He represented New Zealand in 29 matches, scoring 1432 runs at 38.70 and picking up 49 wickets. 

He featured in 18 wins, playing a key role in the inaugural International Cricket Council (ICC) World Test Championship campaign against India in Southampton. 

The all-rounder also proved his mettle in the ODIs, scoring 742 runs in 45 games and scalping 30 wickets at an average of 41.00. He also played in 41 T20Is, scoring 505 runs at a strike rate of 138.35 and taking 12 wickets at 38.41.