Wellington, Dec 23 (IANS) Unable to cope with injuries, New Zealand fast bowler Shane Bond Wednesday announced his retirement from Test cricket.
Bond returned to international cricket in the Test series against Pakistan after ending his stint with Indian Cricket League (ICL), but could only play the first Test in which he took eight wickets. An abdominal muscle tear ruled him out of the remaining two Tests.

Bond, who has been plagued with injuries throughout his career, said his body could no longer take the rigours of the five-day game.

“It’s been a tough call, because Test cricket remains the ultimate form of the game, but I’m comfortable because I have made the right choice,” Bond said.

“I have worked really hard to get back to Test match fitness — it’s what I’ve been working towards for the past two years — and I feel I gave as much as I could.

“But looking back, so many of my injuries have come during Test cricket. Unfortunately my body just won’t let me continue to play at that level, given the workload and demands of Test cricket,” said the 34-year-old.

Bond played only 18 Tests since his debut in 2001 because of injuries, but took 87 wickets at an impressive average of 22.09

Bond said he will continue to play One-day cricket.

“I hope I’ll be able to continue to contribute to the team and to New Zealand cricket fans for a while yet.”

He is expected to rejoin New Zealand for the ODI series against Australia starting in February.

New Zealand Cricket chief executive Justin Vaughan supported his decision.

“We’re disappointed that he won’t be part of the Test line-up, but New Zealand Cricket supports his decision to focus on limited-overs cricket and hopes that this decision will prolong his international career,” he said.

“He remains one of the best fast bowlers in the international game and we’re delighted that he’s doing all he can to keep playing.”