New Zealand’s test skipper Tim Southee has turned 35 today. The experienced fast bowler has been an integral member of the Kiwi squad for over a decade and now he has evolved into a leader as well. His journey from being a star performer in the 2008 Under-19 World Cup to becoming the captain of the team has been fascinating.
The Beginning
Tim Southee got his first bit of fame in 2008 when he was adjudged the player of the tournament in the Under-19 World Cup. He made his international debut even before he played in the Under-19 World Cup. He played his first international game against England in T20 cricket at Napier. He gained prominence after the Under-19 World Cup and got his test debut against the same opposition, England. A few months later he made his ODI debut and soon went on to cement his place in the Kiwi squad.
The Overview
Tim Southee has been one of the most consistent players in the New Zealand squad and has a role to play in all formats of the game. Southee has represented New Zealand in 96 Test matches where he has been successful and picked up 374 wickets at an average of 28.94. In the ODI format, he has registered 221 wickets. Well, not just in ODI cricket but he has had a large share of experience in T20 cricket as well. In 114 T20Is Southee has picked up 144 wickets.
These stats are just for records but what matters the most is his longevity and consistency. Since his debut, he has been a regular part of the Kiwi bowling attack and has been leading it for a long time. His partnership with Trent Boult is one of the major reasons behind New Zealand’s unbelievable resurgence in international cricket, especially in multilateral events. In his limited abilities, he has created a huge impact which is no mean feat.