Bond bids farewell

Bond was widely acknowledged as one of the finest quick bowlers of this era - when injury allowed him to take the field

New Zealand fast bowler Shane Bond has announced his retirement from all forms of cricket.

The 34-year-old revealed his decision to end his career on his return to Christchurch following New Zealand’s exit from the ICC World Twenty20 in the West Indies at the Super Eight stage.

He said: “I know the time is right for me to step down. I have given it everything when playing for the Black Caps.

"I will miss the camaraderie because it has been a privilege to play alongside such a great bunch of guys who are so committed to do their best for New Zealand."

Bond's nine-year international career was blighted by injury - he played only 18 Tests - but, when fit, he was one of the most devastating fast bowlers of his generation.

He made his Test debut against Australia in 2001 and became the quickest New Zealander to reach 50 Test and 50 one-day international wickets.

Injury forced him to call time on a Test career at the end of last year just one match into his comeback after a spell with the rebel Indian Cricket League. His 87 wickets coast 22.09 apiece and he boasted a phenomenal strike-rate of a wicket every 38 balls.

Bond took 147 wickets at an average 20.88 in 82 one-day internationals and 25 at 21.72 in 20 Twenty20 internationals.

He was a particularly potent force against Australia. In 17 ODIs he took 44 wickets at 15.79, including New Zealand-best figures of 6-23 at the 2003 World Cup in South Africa.

Bond, a former policeman, added: "I dreamed of playing for New Zealand when I was six. The reality of what has unfolded was more than I could ever hope for and I have been extremely proud to represent New Zealand.

Bond played only 18 Tests over the course of eight years, but took 87 wickets at 22.09

"I am going to miss a lot of this but I know now is the time to bow out.”

New Zealand captain Daniel Vettori saluted Bond's contribution.

"We are lucky to have had a player of his stature donning the Black Cap," he said.

"For me personally, it is a big loss. I think he could still be a really good player for us for some time to come.

"But I know how much effort he puts in to stay on the park. He knows his body and he knows what he needs to do to prepare for international cricket. Sadly for us, he has decided his time has come to an end.

"Whatever he chooses to put his hand to, I think he will be successful because he is so determined.

“I think that if we can hold on to Shane in any capacity in cricket, if he can help out our future fast bowlers it is only going to be an asset.

“He is one of the best fast bowlers we have ever had and we will miss him in the Black Caps.”

New Zealand Cricket chief executive Justin Vaughan paid his own tribute, saying: “We shall all miss Shane in the international arena.

"His speed and ability struck fear into batsmen from every team in world cricket. He has been a real match-winner.

"Shane will leave a huge gap that will be almost impossible to replace. We are saddened by his decision but we support him and wish him all the best in his future.”