Jamie How to Retire after Ford Trophy competition

Jamie How will retire from all professional cricket at the end of this summer’s domestic Ford Trophy competition.

How, who played 19 Tests, 41 One Day Internationals and five T20Is for the BLACKCAPS, and captained his country during first-class matches on the 2007 tour of England, will step out of the game to take up a full-time role with Toyota New Zealand’s marketing team.

“These are never easy decisions to make but the time has come to embrace an opportunity outside cricket,” How said.

“The role with Toyota New Zealand was too good to pass up. I really thank them for the opportunity they’re providing, and I’m looking forward to the new challenge.

“Most importantly I’m looking forward to spending more regular time with my young family and to establishing a career after cricket”.

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“I am very proud to have played for my country and was very fortunate to play alongside and against some of the very best players in the world.

“Every game was a huge honour and privilege and I have many cherished memories that I will never forget.

How, whose professional career spanned 15 years, said Central Districts had been a big part of his life, and that he was grateful for the opportunities provided.

“I’d like to thank everyone who has helped - all my coaches, teammates, friends, family and supporters. There are too many to list but thank you for all the support over the years.

“And a special thank you to my wife Tammy for putting up with being a cricketer’s widow for so long.

“I wish the Central Districts team all the best for the remainder of the season and thank them for understanding the need for me to take up this new opportunity.”

New Zealand Cricket Chief Executive David White said How had proved his quality as a batsman over a long period of time; had been a fine ambassador for the game and a popular team-mate in all the sides he’d represented.

“It’s always a poignant time when someone like Jamie decides to retire but I’m delighted he’s found a career outside cricket and wish him well in his endeavours.”

“We can reflect on many memorable innings but perhaps the one we’ll remember most was his magnificent 139 against England in 2008 in Napier,” said Mr White.

How captained Central Districts for six seasons and led them to victory in the 2008  HRV Cup and 2013 Plunket Shield.

He remains the only player to be part of partnerships of over 400 in First-Class, 300 in List A (including being the first person to score a double-century in NZ List A cricket) and 200 in Twenty20 cricket.

Central Districts board member Campbell Furlong described How’s contribution to the association as “immense”.

“Quite apart from all his on-field achievements Jamie was, and is, a great bloke,” said Mr Furlong.

“When he has time to sit back and consider his career, he should feel particularly proud  of the respect in which he’s been held by team-mates, opponents and supporters of cricket alike.”