“I accept I’m not getting any younger and that the training is getting harder, particularly with the injuries,” he said in a statement released by New Zealand Cricket. “I also have a growing family and am trying to understand what my future looks like post-cricket. All of this has been on my mind over the past few weeks.
“I’ve been fortunate enough to have had the opportunity to play for the Black Caps since debuting in 2012, and I’m proud of my international career – but I feel this is the right time to finish.”
In the 41 T20Is he played, he scored 505 runs at a strike rate of 138.35 along with 12 wickets.
“I’ve loved being part of this team over the past decade and am grateful for the experiences we’ve shared together,” he said. “I’ve made many lasting friendships with team-mates, coaching staff and opponents, and will treasure the memories for the rest of my life.”
De Grandhomme was born in Harare in 1986 and made his first-class and List A debuts in Zimbabwe. He also represented Zimbabwe in the 2003-04 Under-19 World Cup before leaving for Auckland in 2006. He made his T20 debut for Auckland in the following year and found his way into the international arena with his all-round abilities.
De Grandhomme has expressed desire to continue playing domestic cricket in New Zealand and will be discussing the way forward with Northern Districts.
“Colin’s been a hugely influential part of the Black Caps and contributed to some of the team’s greatest achievements,” he said. “His immense power with the bat and skills with the ball made him a real match winner and an asset to any side.
“Colin’s a great team-man and we will certainly miss his character around the dressing room. While it’s sad to see him go – we appreciate he’s at a stage in his career where he’s looking to head in a different direction and we respect that. We wish him all the best with his future and hope to see him featuring on the New Zealand domestic scene when available.”