4 Feb 2019

McCullum quits Big Bash League

11:45 am on 4 February 2019

Former Black Caps captain Brendon McCullum has announced he'll no longer play in the Australian Big Bash Twenty20 League.

Brisbane Heat batsman and former Black Caps captain Brendon McCullum.

Brendon McCullum Photo: Photosport

McCullum, 37, will play his last game for the Brisbane Heat on Friday against the Melbourne Stars at the Gabba.

He has played for the Heat since 2011.

McCullum retired from international cricket in 2016 following the Black Caps' second place finish at the 2015 Cricket World Cup.

He continued playing in domestic T20 leagues throughout the world, while starting up his equine business - Vermair Racing.

McCullum said he'll continue to play T20 cricket in 2019 while attempting to transition to a coaching career.

"The prospect of being able to transfer the skills, experience and leadership I have been lucky enough to bank over my long T20 and also international career into coaching is very exciting.

"I have absolutely loved playing for the Heat. I've had a great time playing with my teammates, and it was a privilege to captain them. Coming into Brisbane each year before the start of the competition was always a highlight.

"Being a part of the BBL has been a special part of my career. Having been there at the start, and then seeing it grow and evolve into one of the best T20 competitions in the world has been great to be part of.

Heat coach and former Black Caps teammate Daniel Vettori said McCullum had made an indelible contribution to the club and would leave a significant legacy to the playing group.

"His greatest quality is wanting everyone in the team to do well and this week will give us all a wonderful opportunity to reflect on his values and show how we can build on them in the future,'' he said.