Cricket: Cricketing meteor burns himself out

One of the more meteoric rises to international selection had its conclusion this week when former New Zealand fast bowler Carl Bulfin quit cricket.

His surprising decision came after several weeks of weighing up his options, and he insisted it had nothing to do with missing out on Central Districts selection.

Bulfin said wear and tear to his body and a lack of motivation prompted his decision.

"I just don't enjoy playing the game anymore. I've had enough. Even going to practise now is a bit of a chore."

The right-arm speedster, who for a couple of seasons was regarded as the quickest in the New Zealand first-class scene, harboured hopes of making a successful comeback this season after a two-year absence.

"I probably did as much training as I've done at any stage. I was pretty fit, but both my ankles now are half shot."

The 29-year-old Bulfin, whose unruly blond dreadlocks marked him out as a character on the national scene, shot to prominence when he was picked for the New Zealand one-day team in 1999, playing four internationals against South Africa and Scotland at the World Cup.

The highlight?

"A hat-trick against the West Indies playing Max for New Zealand - three very good scalps, Brian Lara, Shivnarine Chanderpaul and Sherwin Campbell."

Bulfin does feel a sense of unfinished business about his New Zealand career.

"It was a big thrill to be in the team, but it was a big disappointment the way I performed. I know I was a lot better bowler than I showed in those games. The nerves got the better of me.

"You get told the night before you are in the team and I just did not get a bloody wink of sleep leading into them [games]."

Family and work commitments with his father's painting business also played a part in his decision.

- NZPA