Iain McPeake Announces Retirement from Professional Cricket

Wellington paceman Iain McPeake has announced his retirement from professional cricket as the 2024/25 season comes to a close.

McPeake will get one last game in the Wellington colours he’s worn over 100 times in competitive fixtures, as the Firebirds host Canterbury to round out both the Plunket Shield season and the domestic summer.

A steady presence for the Firebirds since his debut in the 2015/16 season, McPeake has taken over 200 wickets in his Wellington career, with 152 of his wickets coming in the First Class format at an average of 29.86.

It seems a fitting sendoff for one of the most consistent presences in the team over the last decade to compete one final time at home in the format that started his career, and the one he has enjoyed the most success in.

"It’s been an incredible honour to represent Wellington. For a long time, I just wanted to get one game, so to have had the privilege to play for so many years and be a part of many incredible matches is something I'll cherish forever,” said McPeake.

"Through the years I've been very fortunate to have rubbed shoulders with some of the best cricketers and blokes. It's often said that the best memories you'll hold onto aren't always from the field but it's the time in the changing room celebrating. While reflecting on my time, I see a lot of truth in that.”

"I’d like to extend my deepest thanks to the entire Cricket Wellington organisation and the support staff who make it all possible. We couldn't do this without the support from those behind the scenes,” he said.

While he’s stepping away from the playing side of the game, Iain knows he’ll be no stranger to the Cello Basin Reserve in coming years.

"I'll be getting back on the tools to finish my building apprenticeship and no doubt badgering players from the banks next summer."

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