Kane Williamson has hailed the “incredible” career of his close friend Tim Southee after the pace bowler announced his retirement from Tests following the England series.
Williamson and Southee’s careers have been intertwined since their junior and Under-19 days, through domestic cricket, and into all formats for New Zealand. The pair played their 100th Tests together against Australia earlier this year, with Williamson making his debut two-and-a-half years after Southee.
Williamson, New Zealand’s leading run-scorer in Test history, praised Southee’s longevity and achievements. “To do it as long as Tim has is incredible as a fast bowler,” Williamson said. “There’s not many in the history of the game who have been able to achieve what he has.”
Southee’s retirement marks the latest departure from an era of successful New Zealand players, including Ross Taylor, BJ Watling, Colin de Grandhomme, and Neil Wagner. Trent Boult has also stepped away from Tests and T20Is.
Williamson acknowledged the changing landscape of the team but emphasized the excitement for the future. “It’s life, isn’t it,” he said. “You do realize you are closer towards the end than the start.”
Williamson, who will return from a groin injury against England, also discussed his own career and the challenges of managing his body in the latter stages. “It’s not major, which is good,” he said. “But I’ve certainly had a few reminders that I’m not invincible.”
Despite missing the historic 3-0 victory in India, Williamson praised the team’s performance. “To go over and play the way they did, so special, one of our all-time cricketing memories,” he said.
