Vettori taking break from ODI, T20 cricket to prolong international career

June 25, 2011 | Sports | Written by

Wellington, June 25: Former New Zealand captain Daniel Vettori has announced he will take a break from the shorter formats of the game to prolong his international cricketing career.

Vettori confirmed that he is taking a year off from playing ODI and T20 International cricket, but that Tests remain his priority.

“My reason for taking a break from the shorter forms of the game is primarily so that I can preserve my body and continue to represent the Black Caps in test cricket,” Vettori was quoted as saying by stuff.co.nz.

“I also believe a break now will give me the best possible chance to take up one-day cricket again in the next couple of years and, if all goes well, make the Black Caps World Cup team for 2015,” he added.

Vettori made his test debut in 1997 and took over as New Zealand captain from Stephen Fleming in 2007.

Ross Taylor was announced as Vettori’s successor as captain of the Black Caps earlier this week.

New Zealand Cricket chief executive, Justin Vaughan said he respected Vettori’s decision. “Dan has been a great servant for a long time now and I believe this decision is not only in the best interest but also for the Black Caps,” Vaughan said.

“I look forward to seeing him turn out in the whites for the Black Caps, as I’m sure are many cricket fans around the country,” he added. ettori’s test numbers illustrate his importance to New Zealand. In 104 matches, he has taken 344 wickets, second only to Sir Richard Hadlee’s 431 – and scored 4159 runs with six centuries.

He has also scored 2053 runs and taken 274 wickets from 268 ODI’s. (ANI)