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Picture Credit: NZC

New Zealand all-rounder Colin de Grandhomme has decided to quit international cricket on Wednesday after being drafted in Australia's T20 Big Bash League around the new year. The 36-year-old was roped in by Adelaide Strikers as a 'gold' pick on Sunday which conflicted with BLACKCAPS' central contract. 

New Zealand Cricket board on Wednesday confirmed that de Grandhomme has been released from his central contract.

Earlier, veteran fast bowler Trent Boult opted out of the central contract after the cricketer requested to spend more time with his family and to make himself available for T20 Leagues around the world. The shocking move was seen as repercussion of growing stature of T20 Leagues in the world in international game. 

Speaking about his retirement, De Grandhomme admitted that the training is getting harder, particularly with the injuries amidst growing competition.

"I also have a growing family and I am trying to understand what my future looks like post-cricket. All of this has been on my mind over the past few weeks. I have been fortunate enough to have had the opportunity to pay for the Black Caps since debuting in 2012, and I am proud of my international career," he was quoted saying in a released statement. 

He represented New Zealand in 29 Test matches, scoring 1432 runs and scalping 49 wickets. He played a significant role for New Zealand in the inaugural ICC World Test Championship campaign against Team India in Southampton. The all-rounder amassed 742 runs in 45 ODIs and picked 30-wickets. He also played in 41 T20Is, scoring 505 runs at a strike rate of 138.35 and took 12 wickets at 38.41. 

Commenting over De Grandhomme's decision, New Zealand coach Gary Stead said it was sad to see de Grandhomme depart the international scene, but admitted that he understands his decision. 

"Colin has played an influential part of the BLACKCAPS and contributed to some of the team's historic achievements. His immense power with the bat and skills with the ball made him a real match winner and an asset to any side," concluded Stead.