<p>New Zealand paceman Chris Martin announced his retirement today, bowing out as the third highest Test wicket-taker in Black Caps' history.<br /><br /></p>.<p>Martin played 71 Tests for New Zealand over an international career spanning more than 12 years, claiming 233 wickets at an average of 33.81.<br /><br />The 38-year-old, who played his last Test in January and has fallen down the pecking order as a new generation of fast bowlers emerge, said he had enjoyed every moment with the Black Caps.<br /><br />"It feels like the right time to step down," he said. New Zealand Cricket chief executive David White said Martin had made an outstanding contribution to the Black Caps.<br /><br />"During his career, Chris has formed a reputation as one of the most consistent performers in world cricket, something which can be put down to his relentless work ethic," he said.<br /><br />While lauded for his bowling, Martin was also a fan favourite for his plucky, if inept, efforts with the bat, averaging 2.36 with a high score of 12 over his Test career.<br />He is second only to Courtney Walsh in the number of Test ducks recorded, notching 36 to the West Indian's 43 -- although Walsh did play almost twice the number of matches.</p>
<p>New Zealand paceman Chris Martin announced his retirement today, bowing out as the third highest Test wicket-taker in Black Caps' history.<br /><br /></p>.<p>Martin played 71 Tests for New Zealand over an international career spanning more than 12 years, claiming 233 wickets at an average of 33.81.<br /><br />The 38-year-old, who played his last Test in January and has fallen down the pecking order as a new generation of fast bowlers emerge, said he had enjoyed every moment with the Black Caps.<br /><br />"It feels like the right time to step down," he said. New Zealand Cricket chief executive David White said Martin had made an outstanding contribution to the Black Caps.<br /><br />"During his career, Chris has formed a reputation as one of the most consistent performers in world cricket, something which can be put down to his relentless work ethic," he said.<br /><br />While lauded for his bowling, Martin was also a fan favourite for his plucky, if inept, efforts with the bat, averaging 2.36 with a high score of 12 over his Test career.<br />He is second only to Courtney Walsh in the number of Test ducks recorded, notching 36 to the West Indian's 43 -- although Walsh did play almost twice the number of matches.</p>