Kiwi pacer Hamish Bennett retires from all forms of cricket

New Zealand fast bowler Hamish Bennett has announced his international retirement after having a 17-year-long career. The Kiwi pacer, who made his debut against India in 2010, went on to play one Test, 19 ODIs, and 11 T20 Internationals, where he picked a total of 43 wickets.

Constant injuries ruined Hamish Bennette's international career. He even missed out on the 2011 World Cup as he underwent major surgery for his back injury. However, the successful surgery helped the pacer expand his international career a bit longer.

"When I started as a young kid bowling in the nets in Timaru, I never dreamed I would have gone on to enjoy the career that I've had," Bennett said on Tuesday.

"From Old Boys Timaru Cricket Club, who got me involved in cricket at the start, Timaru Boys' High School, South Canterbury Cricket, Canterbury Cricket, Cricket Wellington, and New Zealand Cricket, as well as all the other great clubs I've played for down the years, they've all played a role in helping me achieve my cricket dream." 

"Men's and women's cricket in New Zealand is in an exciting place, so I'm looking forward to putting the feet up and watching the game grow from the sidelines," Bennett added. 

The New Zealand pacer further expressed his gratitude to all the coaches that supported him during his career. 

"I've been so fortunate to work and play alongside so many great players, captains and coaches, and I'd like to thank every one of them for their support over the years," he said.

Firebirds head coach Glenn Pocknall also congratulated Bennett for his successful career and wished him the best for his future. 

"Hamish transformed himself as a cricketer when he made the bold move to Wellington in 2016," Pocknall said.

"His achievements for Canterbury, Wellington and New Zealand speak volumes for what he has given to the game, and we wish him well in his future."

During his stint, Cricket Wellington CEO Cam Mitchell recalled how Bennett has been the "heart" of Firebird's success and wished him the best for his future endeavours.

"Hamish has been at the heart of a Firebirds team that has experienced unprecedented success during his time in Wellington," Mitchell said.

"His dedication as a player, but also to his coaching in both the men's and women's space and his commitment to his North City club should also be commended. His career achievements speak for themselves, and we look forward to seeing what Hamish achieves after playing, and we have no doubt it will involve cricket in some way," he added.