New Zealand pacer and former test captain Tim Southee has announced to retire after the three-match home Test series against England. However, he has assured availability for the World Test Championship 2025, in case New Zealand qualifies. New Zealand will play three tests against England. The first one will start on November 28 at Christchurch. The second one will start on December 6 at Wellignton, the last and the third on December 14 hosted in Hamilton. Thus the Hamilton Test will be Southee's last. By the third Test, Southee will turn 36. He acknowledges his decision as a tough call but has decided to keep peace with it. Earlier, he steeped down from captaincy after a 0-2 whitewash against Sri Lanka. Regarding his retirement, Southee said, "Representing New Zealand was all I ever dreamed of growing up. To play for the Black Caps 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." He added, "Test cricket holds a special place in my heart, so to be able to play such a big series against the same opponent my Test career began against all those years ago, and on three grounds that are incredibly special to me, seems the perfect way to end my time in the black cap." Appreciation for Tim Southee Southee has represented the Black Caps for 18 years, making 391 appearances since his debut in 2008. Presently, he is the only player in the world to claim more than 300 Test wickets, 200 ODI wickets, and 100 T20I wickets. Read: KL Rahul Injured in Simulation Match, Opening Pair Uncertain Tim Southee expressed his gratitude to family, friends, coaches, fans, and everyone who supported his career as he reflects on his potential Test retirement. He mentioned it has been an incredible journey and is undecided about a final white-ball appearance against Sri Lanka after Christmas. He praised the emerging fast bowlers like Ben Sears and Will O'Rourke and said it's their time to lead the team forward. Black Caps coach Gary Stead highlighted Southee’s durability, competitive spirit, and deep care for the team, while NZC chief Scott Weenink lauded him as a pivotal figure in New Zealand cricket's rise, calling him a "giant" of the modern game. Weenink said, "Tim has been a constant in the improving fortunes of the Black Caps and he'll be remembered as a giant of the modern New Zealand game. There's already unprecedented interest in this England Test tour and I'm sure the chance to farewell one of our all-time greats will only further drive the anticipation and hype for this series." Southee, however, clarified that he would play domestic and franchise cricket even after retirement from international cricket.