Martin GuptillCricket LegendsCricket NewsCricket RecordsICC खबरेंInternational CricketInternational MatchesNew Zealand Cricket NewsNew Zealand Cricketers
Martin Guptill Retires from International Cricket: A Look Back at His Legendary Career
January 8, 2025 – New Zealand’s Martin Guptill, one of the most successful white-ball batters in the country’s cricketing history, has announced his retirement from international cricket at the age of 38. This marks the end of a remarkable 13-year career that saw him excel across all formats of the game.
Guptill’s Incredible Career Stats
Martin Guptill, who made his international debut in 2009, has been a consistent performer for New Zealand across all three formats of the game. He played a total of 367 matches during his career, including 198 One Day Internationals (ODIs), 122 Twenty20 Internationals (T20Is), and 47 Test matches. Guptill’s retirement comes after a stellar career where he became New Zealand’s highest-ever run-scorer in T20I cricket with a remarkable 3531 runs.
His achievements in ODIs are equally impressive, with Guptill finishing as the third-highest run-scorer for New Zealand in this format, with 7346 runs to his name. The only players ahead of him are Ross Taylor and Stephen Fleming. Throughout his career, Guptill registered 23 centuries, including three in Tests, 18 in ODIs, and two in T20Is.
Key Highlights of Guptill’s Career
Guptill is most remembered for his stunning performances in major international tournaments, particularly the ICC Cricket World Cup 2015. He was the top-scorer of the tournament, amassing 547 runs, helping New Zealand reach the final, where they narrowly lost to Australia. One of his finest ODI performances came in the quarter-finals of the 2015 World Cup, where he scored an unbeaten 237 runs against the West Indies.
Guptill’s Debut and Early Career
Guptill’s journey to international cricket began in the ODI format, where he made a spectacular debut against the West Indies in 2009. He scored an unbeaten century (122*), setting the tone for what would be a highly successful career in limited-overs cricket. Over the years, Guptill became an integral part of the New Zealand team, known for his solid technique, powerful hitting, and consistency at the top of the order.
Guptill’s Legacy in New Zealand Cricket
Guptill’s contribution to New Zealand cricket goes beyond just his runs. He was known for his incredible fielding abilities and was a key player in New Zealand’s strong fielding unit. One of the most iconic moments of his career came during the 2019 ICC Cricket World Cup semi-final against India. In a tense match, Guptill produced a brilliant direct hit to run out MS Dhoni, a moment that helped New Zealand reach the final.
His fielding exploits were a key part of New Zealand’s success during his tenure, and he remains one of the best fielders the team has ever had. His contributions with the bat and in the field have made him a beloved figure in New Zealand cricket, and his retirement marks the end of an era.
Guptill’s Personal Reflections
Looking back at his career, Guptill expressed his gratitude for the incredible journey he had as a part of the New Zealand cricket team. He fondly reflected on the memories of wearing the silver fern alongside his teammates, who he considered a great group of guys. He also credited his long-time coach Mark O’Donnell, who had been with him since his Under-19 days, for his continuous support and guidance throughout his career.
Guptill also acknowledged his wife Laura for her unwavering support during his career. “To my wife Laura and our beautiful children Harley and Teddy – thank you. You’ve been my biggest supporter, my rock, and my counsel through all the ups and downs that come with the game,” Guptill said.
What’s Next for Martin Guptill?
As Martin Guptill steps away from the international stage, the cricketing world bids farewell to one of its most accomplished white-ball players. While his playing days have come to an end, Guptill’s legacy will live on in New Zealand cricket. His performances, both as a batsman and as a fielder, have set the bar high for future generations.
Fans will no doubt continue to celebrate Guptill’s iconic moments in international cricket, particularly his record-breaking innings and his crucial contributions in New Zealand’s World Cup campaigns.