TIM SOUTHEE'S TOP : CRICKET HONOURS

Playing on his home ground at Seddon Park, seamer Southee finished with 2-34 in his 107th and final Test, ending the career of one of New Zealand's finest players.

HAMILTON : NZ crush England to send Southee out on high : New Zealand tore through England's batting Tuesday to crush the visitors by 423 runs in the third Test and send Tim Southee into retirement on a triumphant note.

The hosts sealed a dominant performance in Hamilton by claiming seven wickets in 41.2 overs on day four as England crumbled for 234.

It was NZ's equal highest victory by runs and a complete reversal from the first two Tests, which England won easily to clinch the three-match series.

Tim Southee finished with 391 Test wickets, second only to Richard Hadlee among New Zealanders.

'' I want to thank New Zealand Cricket for everything you have done. My family, who are there for the ride and see the ups and downs,''  said the 36-year-old Southee.

'' And my team-mates, These guys have made the ride so much more enjoyable, I have loved every minute.''

'' And finally the fans. It is always great to turn out in front of numbers. This week has been pretty special to play at Seddon Park in front of a great crowd.''

The World Students Society thanks AFP.