A swashbuckling strokeplayer and a fine exponent of medium-pace swing bowling, New Zealand allrounder Colin de Grandhomme has drawn curtains on his international career, bidding adieu having played 29 Tests, 45 ODIs and 41 T20Is after making his international debut back in 2012.
“I accept that I am not getting any younger and that the training is getting harder, particularly with the injuries,” De Grandhomme reasoned. “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.
Colin de Grandhomme swung the game New Zealand’s way with some fantastic hitting! @OPPO #BeAShotMaker pic.twitter.com/DWjT5r8svt
— ICC (@ICC) June 20, 2019
“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.”
De Grandhomme was a vital cog in the wheel of an immensely successful New Zealand side across formats. With that rapier-like blade of his, he scored 1432 runs in 29 Tests – 18 of which culminated in victories for New Zealand. He played his part in New Zealand’s ICC Test Championship victory and the march to 2019 ODI World Cup final with aplomb.
“I’ve loved being part of this team over the past decade and am grateful for the experiences we’ve shared together. I’ve made many lasting friendships with team-mates, coaching staff and opponents, and will treasure the memories for the rest of my life.”
New Zealand head coach Gary Stead lauded the all-rounder and his match-winning abilities. “Colin’s been a hugely influential part of the BLACKCAPS and contributed to some of the team’s greatest achievements,” Stead reflected. “His immense power with the bat and skills with the ball made him a real match winner and an asset to any side.
“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,” Stead added.
