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Veteran New Zealand pacer Tim Southee, playing his final Test match, received an emotional farewell moment when the England team honored him with a guard of honor. This memorable gesture took place on Saturday, December 14, during the third and final Test of the series at Seddon Park in Hamilton. The 36-year-old, known for his contributions with both the ball and bat, took a final walk to the crease amid applause and admiration from the crowd and his fellow cricketers.
A Spirited Batting Performance
Walking in at No. 10, Tim Southee delivered a brief but entertaining cameo, delighting the Hamilton crowd with his characteristic flair. He smashed 23 runs off just 10 balls, which included one boundary and three powerful sixes. With this performance, Southee’s tally of sixes in Test cricket rose to 98, placing him fourth on the all-time list of most sixes in Test history — a remarkable feat for a lower-order batsman.
A Storied Career Comes Full Circle
This final Test match held sentimental significance for Southee, as his debut Test in 2008 was also against England. In a career spanning 16 years and 107 Test matches, Tim Southee has established himself as one of New Zealand’s most reliable and respected cricketers. He has taken an impressive 389 wickets in Test cricket, with 15 five-wicket hauls to his name. His highest bowling figures in an innings are 7/64, showcasing his ability to decimate batting lineups.
In addition to his skills with the ball, Southee contributed significantly with the bat. Across his career, he has amassed 2,243 runs, including seven half-centuries, with a personal best of 77 not out. His aggressive batting style has often provided New Zealand with crucial lower-order runs, adding to his reputation as a valuable all-rounder.
The Emotional Farewell
As Tim Southee took to the field, the England players lined up to form a guard of honor, applauding his illustrious career and achievements. The moment was a touching acknowledgment of his contribution to international cricket. The crowd at Seddon Park rose to their feet, offering a standing ovation in appreciation of the veteran pacer’s dedication and service to New Zealand cricket.
This farewell not only marked the end of Tim Southee’s Test career but also highlighted the respect and camaraderie that exists in the world of cricket. It was a fitting tribute to a player who has given so much to the sport, leading New Zealand’s bowling attack for more than a decade.
Southee’s Legacy
Tim Southee’s legacy is one of consistency, determination, and sportsmanship. Over the years, he has formed lethal bowling partnerships with other Kiwi greats, such as Trent Boult and Neil Wagner, helping New Zealand to numerous historic victories. His contributions were instrumental in New Zealand’s triumph in the inaugural ICC World Test Championship in 2021.
Off the field, Southee has been known for his calm demeanor, leadership qualities, and mentorship of younger players, shaping the next generation of New Zealand cricketers.
A Remarkable Journey Concludes
As Southee exits the Test arena, he leaves behind a legacy of hard work and perseverance. New Zealand cricket fans will remember him not just for his stats but for the passion and joy he brought to the game. His final appearance at Seddon Park, marked by a flurry of sixes and a heartwarming guard of honor, was a poetic conclusion to a stellar career.
Tim Southee’s journey reminds cricket fans worldwide of the enduring spirit of the game — a blend of skill, respect, and sportsmanship. His contributions to New Zealand cricket will be cherished for years to come, and his achievements will continue to inspire future generations of cricketers.
