New Zealand’s Kyle Mills has retired from all forms of cricket with immediate effect.
The right-arm seamer, who was part of the Black Caps’ squad which reached last month’s World Cup final but did not play a game, is second only to Daniel Vettori – who also quit the sport following the MCG showpiece – on New Zealand’s list of one-day international victories.
The 36-year-old took 240 wickets in 170 ODI appearances, as well as playing 42 T20 internationals and 19 Tests – the highlight in the latter format a spell of 4-16 which secured victory against England at Hamilton in 2008.
"It's been an honour and privilege to play cricket for my country over the past 14 years and I will miss it greatly," said Mills.
"However the time is right for me to step away from playing this great game and devote more time to my family who have sacrificed so much for me to keep playing the game I love.”
New Zealand coach Mike Hesson was amongst those to praise Mills, and particularly his contribution in the 50-over format.
"It's sometimes forgotten that over the course of his career Kyle has consistently been ranked in the top-10 ODI bowlers in the world and for a long time held the top spot," Hesson said.
"To have the longevity that Kyle's had takes an incredible work ethic and desire to represent your country.”