Right-handed swing bowler Tim Southee made his sensational international debut at just 19 years old. Already recognized as the best player of the 2008 U-19 World Cup, Southee made his Test debut for New Zealand against England in Napier. He made an immediate impact, taking 5 for 55 in the first innings and scoring a quick 77 off 40 balls. With nine wickets and a stellar all-around performance in his debut match, Southee announced himself as a player with immense potential.
Over the next decade, Southee formed a formidable new-ball partnership with Trent Boult. Known for his exceptional swing bowling and handy batting ability, Southee reached his sixth Test fifty by his 36th match. His ability to adapt to different conditions became a hallmark of his career. In 2012, his 7 for 64 against India set a record for the best figures by a New Zealand bowler in the country. He also played a pivotal role in New Zealand’s rare victory over Sri Lanka, taking 8 for 120 in the match. Southee’s brilliance shone in the 2015 World Cup, where his iconic 7 for 33 against England became one of the tournament’s standout performances. His contributions cemented his status as one of New Zealand’s finest ODI bowlers.
Despite his stellar performances in Tests and T20Is, Southee’s opportunities in ODIs were somewhat limited due to the rise of bowlers like Matt Henry and Lockie Ferguson. In the 2019 World Cup, he played just one game but remained a key figure in New Zealand’s Test lineup. By the end of his career, Southee had taken 385 wickets in 104 Tests, with best bowling figures of 7 for 64 and match figures of 10 for 108. His consistency and ability to perform under pressure were defining traits of his career.
Southee’s achievements extended beyond his bowling. He holds several impressive records, such as being third on the list of most Test runs without a century and ranking sixth in career sixes. He also achieved the rare feat of scoring 1,000 runs and taking 100 wickets in Test cricket.
Southee’s decision to retire from Test cricket after the series against England marked the end of an era in New Zealand’s bowling attack. His legacy includes over 770 wickets across all formats, a testament to his vital role in New Zealand’s rise as a competitive cricketing force. Although his captaincy tenure yielded mixed results, his leadership and contributions to New Zealand cricket were invaluable.
As Southee steps away from Test cricket, his influence on the game remains undeniable. His final matches, especially against England, served as a fitting conclusion to a remarkable career. While his absence will be felt, his legacy as one of New Zealand’s greatest cricketers is firmly etched in history.