Colin de Grandhomme retires from international cricket
Colin de Grandhomme has announced his retirement from international cricket. He said that persistent injuries and the competition for the national side is the major reason for his decision.
“I accept I’m not getting any younger and that the training is getting harder, particularly with the injuries,” he said in a statement released by New Zealand Cricket.
He also mentioned that he has a growing family and he had to think about what his future would look like after his cricket career.
“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 Black Caps since debuting in 2012, and I’m proud of my international career – but I feel this is the right time to finish,” he added.
Earlier in the week, de Grandhomme took New Zealand Cricket Board by surprise when he was picked up by Adelaide Strikers for the upcoming season of the Big Bash League.
“We’re now in discussions with Colin to find the best possible way forward,” a NZC spokesperson had told ESPNcricinfo then.
De Grandhomme, who was born in Zimbabwe, began his career with New Zealand when he began to play for Auckland in 2012.
He went on to represent the country for almost ten years and has played 115 games across formats. He was also the part of 2019 World Cup Final.
“I’ve loved being part of this team over the past decade and am grateful for the experiences we’ve shared together,” he said. “I’ve made many lasting friendships with team-mates, coaching staff and opponents, and will treasure the memories for the rest of my life,” the New Zealand all-rounder concluded.
New Zealand head coach Gary Stead said that he was disappointed to see Colin de Grandhomme exit international cricket but he understands the move.
“Colin’s been a hugely influential part of the Black Caps 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.
The New Zealand men’s coach also added that Colin de Grandhomme is a great team man and the Black Caps will miss his character around the dressing room.
“Colin’s a great team-man and we will certainly miss his character around the dressing room. 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. We wish him all the best with his future and hope to see him featuring on the New Zealand domestic scene when available.”