Hamilton, Nov 15 (Reporter) New Zealand cricket legend Tim Southee has announced that his final Test series for the BLACKCAPS will be played against England at his home ground, Seddon Park, in Hamilton this December. The series will be his last, unless New Zealand qualifies for the ICC World Test Championship (WTC) Final next June, for which he would make himself available. Southee, who is New Zealand's all-time leading international wicket-taker with 770 wickets, revealed that the three-Test series against England, set to begin on December 14, will mark the conclusion of his illustrious 18-year international career. The 36-year-old, a stalwart in New Zealand's bowling attack, reflected on his decision to retire as one of the most difficult moments of his career, but one he felt at peace with. “Representing New Zealand was all I ever dreamed of growing up. To play for the BLACKCAPS for 18 years has been the greatest honour and privilege, but the time feels right to now step away from the game that has given so much to me,” said Southee. Southee’s career has been defined by his exceptional consistency and versatility across all formats, making him the only player in the world to take more than 300 Test wickets, 200 ODI wickets, and 100 T20I wickets. His contributions have been pivotal to New Zealand's success in numerous international competitions, including the 2015 Cricket World Cup and the 2019-21 ICC World Test Championship, where he played a key role in securing the team's historic victory. NZC Chief Executive Scott Weenink praised Southee for his immense contributions to the game, particularly during New Zealand’s rise to international prominence over the last decade. "Tim has been a constant in the improving fortunes of the BLACKCAPS and he’ll be remembered as a giant of the modern New Zealand game," Weenink said. Southee’s partnership with fellow bowler Trent Boult has been a highlight of his career, with the pair combining for a staggering 833 international wickets. Fans will fondly remember their partnership as one of the most potent in New Zealand’s cricketing history. Gary Stead, head coach of the BLACKCAPS, expressed admiration for Southee’s commitment, saying, "Tim’s durability and resilience has been outstanding. He’s an incredibly tough competitor who gets himself up for big occasions and is rarely injured." Southee’s cricketing journey began in Whangarei, and over the course of 391 international appearances, he has set numerous records and achieved remarkable milestones, including claiming 164 T20I wickets, the most in world cricket. His remarkable career includes being named Player of the Tournament at the 2008 ICC Under 19 Cricket World Cup, a testament to his early promise. As Southee prepares for his final Test series, he expressed his gratitude to his family, friends, coaches, and fans for their unwavering support. "It’s been an amazing ride and I wouldn’t change a thing," he added. After the England series, Southee will decide whether to make himself available for New Zealand’s white-ball fixtures against Sri Lanka post-Christmas, but he will remain involved in domestic and franchise cricket moving forward. With his final Test series fast approaching, Tim Southee bids farewell to a storied career that will leave an indelible mark on New Zealand cricket. Southee's Career Statistics: - 770 wickets in international cricket (most by a New Zealander). - 385 Test wickets and 385 white-ball wickets. - Only player to claim more than 300 Test wickets, 200 ODI wickets, and 100 T20I wickets. - 391 international appearances, the 5th most for New Zealand. - Record for most wickets in Test victories (207 wickets at an average of 22). - 164 T20I wickets, the most in world cricket...////...