Martin Guptill Retires from International Cricket - A Legendary Career in New Zealand Cricket

A Remarkable Journey of 14 Years Comes to an End

New Zealand cricket fans bid farewell to an era as BLACKCAPS great Martin Guptill officially announced his retirement from international cricket. The 38-year-old veteran, renowned for his explosive batting and fielding brilliance, leaves behind an illustrious 14-year career that has shaped New Zealand’s cricketing history.

A Career Full of Records and Memories

Guptill represented the BLACKCAPS in 367 matches across formats—198 ODIs, 122 T20Is, and 47 Tests. With 23 international centuries and numerous white-ball records, his achievements are etched in New Zealand cricket’s legacy.

As New Zealand's all-time leading T20I run-scorer (3,531 runs) and the third-highest ODI run-scorer (7,346 runs), Guptill’s contributions are monumental. His 237 not out against the West Indies in the 2015 ICC Cricket World Cup remains New Zealand's highest-ever ODI score and one of the most memorable innings in World Cup history.

Reflections from a Cricketing Giant

Expressing pride in his career, Guptill said, "As a young kid, it was always my dream to play for New Zealand. I feel incredibly lucky and proud to have represented my country in 367 games. I will forever cherish the memories made wearing the silver fern."

He extended heartfelt gratitude to his teammates, coaches, and family, particularly his wife Laura, for their unwavering support. "Laura, you’ve been my rock through all the ups and downs that come with the game. I am eternally grateful," Guptill shared.

Iconic Moments and Achievements

Guptill’s career is defined by spectacular moments and milestones. His ODI debut century in 2009 against the West Indies was a precursor to the dominance he would showcase in limited-overs cricket. He went on to score two T20I centuries and three Test centuries, with innings like 189 against Bangladesh and 156 against Sri Lanka standing out.

Fans will fondly remember his fearless power-hitting, accumulating 1,385 fours and 383 sixes in international cricket. His fielding prowess was equally exceptional, highlighted by a memorable direct-hit run-out of India’s M.S. Dhoni in the 2019 World Cup semi-final.

Tributes to a Cricketing Icon

NZC CEO Scott Weenink praised Guptill as one of the world’s finest short-format batsmen. “Martin was as good as anyone else in the world. Between the 2015 and 2019 ICC World Cups, he was almost without peer,” said Weenink.

BLACKCAPS Test captain Tom Latham also reflected on Guptill’s impact. "On his day, Gup was world-class. His crisp ball striking and timing could take down the best bowling attacks in the world. It was a privilege to open the batting with him."

The Next Chapter

Though Guptill steps away from international cricket, he remains active in the game. Leading the Auckland Aces in the Dream11 Super Smash, he continues to showcase his prowess in franchise T20 cricket globally.

Guptill’s retirement will be officially acknowledged during the BLACKCAPS’ third ODI against Sri Lanka on January 11 at Eden Park, a fitting venue given his West Auckland roots and his dominance at the ground.

As the cricketing world celebrates Martin Guptill’s career, his contributions will inspire generations of players and fans alike.