Cricket: ND stalwart likely to retire on 99

By TERRY MADDAFORD

Simon Doull has stopped short of announcing his retirement from first-class cricket but it seems likely he will call it quits at this level after 99 matches.

In announcing his unavailability for Northern Districts' remaining three State Championship matches this season, Doull said any decision to retire would come at the start rather than the end of a season.

He is 12th man for the match that began yesterday against Central Districts.

"I'm struggling to get up and be 100 per cent enthusiastic for four-day cricket at the moment," 32-year-old Doull said yesterday.

"I realise my test-playing days are probably over but, really, I just want to give my body a rest then wait and see how I feel.

"I enjoyed playing the one-dayers for ND this summer so I might have another look at that.

"I'm disappointed I didn't get more four-day cricket this season but I chose not to play the first one and the boys bowled pretty well. I've not much cause for complaint."

Doull has been a faithful servant for ND since his 1989-90 debut. He has played 47 matches and taken 111 wickets.

His best bowling, however, came in the inaugural Boxing Day test against India in 1998-99 when he bagged seven for 65 - fifth best on the New Zealand all-time test list and one of six five-wicket hauls.

His 98 wickets, in 32 tests, has him in the top dozen.

He also played 42 one-day internationals, with a best of four for 25.

Northern Districts have already indicated their desire to have Doull assist in developing the next generation of their pace bowlers.