New Zealand all-rounder Grant Elliott has called time on his one-day international career but expressed his desire to continue playing T20s for the Black Caps.
Elliott was a crucial member of the New Zealand team that made it to the semi-final of the World T20, bowling with an economy rate of less than six in five matches.
The 37-year-old, however, is most remembered for hitting a six from the penultimate ball off South Africa’s Dale Steyn in the 50-over World Cup semi-final last year to propel New Zealand to their first world final. And it’s the 50-over format that Elliott won’t play a part in anymore.
“I have played my last one-day game,” Elliott said at Auckland Airport on Friday after returning home from India. “But there are three formats. I won’t be considered for Test cricket, I haven’t seen my Test clothing for a few years. There’s still T20 cricket and my body feels good.
“I’m going to reassess and let the dust settle. As long as I’m enjoying my cricket, I haven’t made a call on anything yet. So I’ll just get home and assess it.”
Born in South Africa, Elliott moved to New Zealand to play international cricket and made his Test debut against England in 2008 but only took part in five matches. However, he turned out to be a useful limited overs player and made it to the World Cup squad last year despite not having played for the team in more than 14 months.
The right-hander proved his worth with a superlative 84 not out against the South Africans in the semi-final. Elliott was not done, top-scoring with 83 in the final against Australia. However, that innings wasn’t enough as the Australians lifted the title at the Melbourne Cricket Ground following a sevenwicket victory.
Elliott finishes his one-day career with 1,976 runs at an average of 34.06 from 83 matches with two centuries.
He was also a handy medium pacer, with 39 wickets at a respectable economy of 5.43.
