New Zealand all-rounder to focus on the shorter forms of the game
New Zealand all-rounder Jacob Oram has admitted he has been forced to quit the Test arena to prolong his international career in the shorter forms of the game.
Oram has struggled with injuries throughout his career, with a hamstring problem meaning the 31-year-old missed the Champions Trophy.
And having previously considered just playing as a batsman because of Achilles and calf problems, Oram has now decided to retire from Test cricket.
"This decision has been a very tough one and has not been made without careful consideration and discussion with those closest to me," Oram said.
"The last few years have shown that my body cannot handle the strains and stresses that come with being an all-rounder, playing all three formats for up to 10 months a year.
Decision
"For the sake of longevity I have had to make a decision that will decrease my workload so I can concentrate all my efforts on the shorter forms of the game.
"The decision to choose limited-overs cricket over Test cricket has a lot to do with playing opportunities.
"The Black Caps play a lot more limited-overs cricket than Tests, and there's also the opportunity to continue playing in world events such as the World Cup, World Twenty20 and Champions Trophy, as well as the IPL (Indian Premier League).
"The opportunity to spend more time at home with my family including my first child, due next month, is also a major reason for deciding to pull back on playing commitments and time away from home."
