New Zealand’s veteran opener, Martin Guptill, has announced his retirement from international cricket, bringing an end to a remarkable career that spanned over 14 years. The 37-year-old made the announcement on January 9, 2025, leaving behind a legacy as one of New Zealand’s greatest opening batsmen.
Guptill, who made his debut for the Black Caps in 2009, has been a pivotal figure in New Zealand’s cricketing success over the years. Known for his aggressive batting and ability to perform on the biggest stages, he played key roles in numerous memorable moments, including New Zealand’s journey to the 2015 and 2019 ICC Cricket World Cup finals.
In addition to his performances in global tournaments, Guptill holds the record for the highest individual score by a New Zealand batsman in a One Day International (ODI), with a stunning 237 runs against West Indies in 2015. His ability to anchor innings and his match-winning contributions in all formats made him a cornerstone of the Black Caps’ batting lineup.
Guptill’s retirement marks the end of an era for New Zealand cricket, and the cricketing world will remember his consistency, power hitting, and leadership on the field.
“I’ve enjoyed every moment representing my country, and it’s been an honor to play for the Black Caps,” said Guptill in his retirement statement. “I feel it’s the right time to step away and allow the next generation to take over.”
His decision to retire comes after a successful career that has seen him amass over 7000 runs in ODIs, with numerous half-centuries and centuries to his name. Guptill’s contributions to New Zealand cricket, both in domestic and international competitions, will be celebrated for years to come.
