Guptill: ‘The door’s not shut’ to a Caps return
Outcast NZ white-ball great hopeful of selection despite Aussie move
Going out to play for your country is the big pull. I’m hoping to get another crack.
Martin Guptill
Aturbulent week for Black Caps white-ball cricket great Martin Guptill has ended with him signing a deal to play for the Melbourne Renegades in Australia’s Big Bash Twenty20 competition.
The news comes two days after being released from his New Zealand Cricket contract.
He replaces England’s Liam Livingstone, who withdrew this week due to increased international commitments.
Guptill will slot in for the last 10 regular season games, beginning on December 28 against the Sydney Sixers. He has played one previous game in the league for the Sydney Thunders against the Sixers in December 2012.
Speaking to the Weekend Herald, Guptill reflected on what has been a pivotal move in a storied career, dating back to his international debut in 2009.
“Sport doesn’t really owe you anything. Going out to play for your country is the big pull. I’m hoping to get another crack, whenever that might be. If I don’t, I’ve had a fantastic career, something I’m really proud of across nearly 14 years, but hopefully there’s still one or two more games up my sleeve.
“It’s been a tough week, and a tough decision to give back my contract to move forward to something new. It wasn’t an easy decision but ultimately it’s the best one for my family.
“They [the Renegades] came to us and asked if I was available. That helped because I had been mulling over what was next during the [Twenty20] World Cup. This came along and I thought it could be an opportunity.”
The 36-year-old didn’t play in the World Cup last month and wasn’t selected for the series against India. NZC’s agreement to release him means future international windows might be slim. Guptill emphasised he wanted to be considered when available but understood preference would be given to players with central or domestic contracts. “[NZC] were supportive of everything — I dealt with [chief executive] David White and [high performance boss] Bryan Stronach mostly. The opportunity to get more consistent cricket in my last couple of years was the aim.
“I’ll play as long as my body holds up and as long as I’m enjoying the game.”
What chance does he have of a Black Caps encore?
“I’m told the door’s not shut, so hopefully there’s another opportunity to get back in at some point. As long as I’m scoring runs and staying fit, anything’s possible.
“There was a wee bit of talk [with coach Gary Stead during the World Cup] but I need to play as much cricket while I still can, rather than being on the outer not knowing when my next game’s going to be. This was the best decision in the circumstances.”
Guptill will play limited overs cricket for Auckland before the Big Bash and intends to put his name forward for other leagues in 2023 to make the most of his twilight years as a professional.