There'll be no ceremonial burning of his kit to mark his retirement from international cricket but Brendon McCullum does plan on celebrating his 14 years as a Black Cap with team-mates.
Captain Brendon McCullum acknowledges the crowd during his final test for New Zealand. Photo: PHOTOSPORT
The 34-year-old's 101 test career ended with a seven wicket loss to Australia in Christchurch this afternoon, with Australia winning the series 2-nil to climb above India as the world's number one ranked test side.
McCullum says he won't be marking his retirement with a symbolic pyre of his gear.
"No, definitely not. Not on purpose anyway. Who knows what will happen tonight?," he said.
"I'm not a real sentimental sort of bloke but my Black Cap will hold pride of place somewhere and that'll be probably it."
McCullum said he does expect to wake up a little worse for wear tomorrow.
"I'll be a bit dusty, I'd say. I've got 14 years to make up for."
He will remember his final test with mixed emotions - disappointment, relief and a little joy.
He marked it by scoring the world's fastest test century in the first innings and while disappointed he couldn't sign off with a win is relieved also.
"I think every cricketer, when they finish their career, you probably get to that stage when you're away from the prying eyes and the media scrutiny and the things which can be at times quite difficult to deal with but are an essential part of being an international sportsman."
"What comes with the good times also comes with its challenges," he said.
"You walk away knowing that you've been able to front up and try to go out there and get a performance on the board and I guess now you're a little bit relieved. It's probably the right word."
-RNZ
