Styris retires from international cricket

June 24th, 2011 - 9:05 pm ICT by IANS  

Wellington, June 24 (IANS) New Zealand all-rounder Scott Styris Friday announced his retirement from international cricket, bringing down the curtains on a 12-year career.

Styris played his last match in the semifinals of the World Cup against Sri Lanka.

The 35-year-old said he reflected on retirement after the World Cup and felt it was the right time to step down.

“I have thoroughly enjoyed representing my country in the international cricketing environment. It has been an honour and a pleasure to play for the Black Caps alongside so many quality players over the years and to have been a part of many key moments during that time” said Styris.

Styris counts being part of 2000 Champions Trophy winning team and the history making New Zealand Test series in the West Indies in 2002 among the memorable moments of his career.

“Winning the Champions Trophy in Kenya was awesome given it was also the first time the Blackcaps won an ICC event. It was also memorable to score a hundred and take wickets on my Test debut, knowing it contributed to an historic series win.”

Styris will continue to play domestic cricket for the Northern Knights and the Chennai Super Kings.

“I really enjoy the T20 format of the game and see it as a way to stay involved in cricket for another year or two if I can,” he said.

“Not being on the international circuit means more time at home and I’m really looking forward to spending more time with my family.

“I would like to thank my family and everyone at New Zealand Cricket, Northern Districts Cricket and fans for all their help and support over the years. It would not have been possible to play at this level over this period of time without it”.

New Zealand Cricket CEO Justin Vaughan was full of praise for Styris.

“Scott has been a key part of the New Zealand since his debut over a decade ago,” said Vaughan.

“He has been one of our most consistent performers - a real ‘go-to’ man in big games - and someone who always seemed to play his best under pressure. His competitive attitude and leadership he demonstrated while in the Blackcaps team unit will be missed,” he said.

Styris is currently playing cricket for Essex in the Friends Life T20 competition.

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