Born in South Africa, Bradley-John Watling, famously known as BJ Watling, sparked his cricket career with Northern Districts in December 2004.
His journey to international acclaim began with his Test debut in December 2009, followed by his first One Day International eight months later. By 2012, Watling had carved his niche as New Zealand’s Test wicket-keeper.
Notably, Watling holds the New Zealand record for most dismissals by a wicket-keeper. Impressively, he played a pivotal role in New Zealand’s highest 6th and 7th wicket Test partnerships.
Additionally, he stands out as the first New Zealand wicket-keeper batsman to hit a double century in Tests.
In May 2021, Watling announced his retirement. This decision followed New Zealand’s triumphant tour of England and their victory in the 2019–21 ICC World Test Championship final in June 2021.
His departure marked the end of an illustrious era in New Zealand cricket.
Key Takeaways
Hide- Early Beginnings: BJ Watling's cricket journey started in South Africa and flourished in New Zealand from a young age.
- International Debut: He made his international debut in T20I against Pakistan in 2009 and his Test debut later that year.
- Test Wicket-Keeping: By 2012, Watling had become New Zealand's primary Test wicket-keeper.
- Record Holder: He holds the record for the most dismissals by a New Zealand wicket-keeper.
- Historic Partnerships: Watling contributed to New Zealand's highest 6th and 7th wicket partnerships in Test cricket.
- Captaincy and Milestones: He served as a stand-in captain for the Black Caps and achieved numerous personal milestones.
- Retirement: Watling retired in 2021 following New Zealand's victory in the ICC World Test Championship.
BJ Watling: A Cricket Journey from South Africa to New Zealand Stardom
BJ Watling’s journey began in South Africa, moving to New Zealand at age 10. Studying at Hamilton Boys’ High School, he received guidance from ex-Test cricketer Chris Kuggeleijn.
There, Watling shone brightly, clinching the Gillette Cup twice. Additionally, he showcased his talent in the Under-19 Cricket World Cup of 2004.
A notable feat was Watling’s massive 200+ run partnership with Daniel Boughtwood at school, setting a record.
Also, he dazzled in the 2008 Hamilton senior club final, scoring a remarkable 378 runs for Hamilton Old Boys against Eastern Suburbs. This feat etched Watling’s name in cricket history.
Rising Star: BJ Watling’s ODI and T20 Debut
BJ Watling first caught the cricketing world’s attention in 2009. He joined New Zealand’s squad for the series against Pakistan in Abu Dhabi and Dubai.
Although he didn’t play in the ODI series, his debut came in the first Twenty20 International in Dubai.
Despite New Zealand’s loss, Watling’s journey had begun. Soon after, he showed remarkable form domestically, earning a spot in the Test squad against Pakistan.
Opening Success: Watling’s Test Debut
December 2009 marked Watling’s Test debut. Opening with Tim McIntosh, they brought unexpected stability to New Zealand’s batting.
Watling scored a swift 60 in the second innings, his first Test half-century. Their partnership, however, ended due to rain, dashing New Zealand’s victory hopes.
Memorable Milestones: ODI Debut and Test Triumphs
In August 2010, Watling made an impressive ODI debut against Sri Lanka, top-scoring with 55 runs. His journey continued in 2012 when he replaced Reece Young as wicket-keeper against Zimbabwe.
Watling’s first Test century came in this match. Despite a hip injury in 2013, he returned stronger, setting records and earning acclaim.
Record-Breaking Partnerships: Watling’s Historic Stands
2014 and 2015 were landmark years for Watling. His partnerships with Brendon McCullum and Kane Williamson set new records for the sixth-wicket stand in Test cricket.
Watling’s resilience and skill shone, making him a crucial player in New Zealand’s cricket narrative.
Leadership and Records: Captaincy and Wicket-Keeping Milestones
Watling’s versatility was evident in 2015 when he became stand-in captain for the Black Caps. Despite an injury, he continued to make significant contributions, including a century at Headingley.
His wicket-keeping skills also peaked, achieving 100 dismissals and breaking records.
A Glorious Finale: Watling’s Retirement after a Historic Career
BJ Watling’s illustrious career culminated in June 2021. He retired after New Zealand’s victory in the ICC World Test Championship.
His journey, marked by record-breaking performances and resilient comebacks, ended on a triumphant note, leaving an indelible mark on cricket history.
BJ Watling’s Test Cricket Timeline
| Milestone | Details |
|---|---|
| National Side | New Zealand (2009–2021) |
| Test Debut | 11 December 2009 vs. Pakistan |
| Final Test | 18 June 2021 vs. India |
| Cap Number | 244 |
BJ Watling’s ODI Journey
| Milestone | Details |
|---|---|
| ODI Debut | 13 August 2010 vs. Sri Lanka |
| Last ODI | 11 November 2018 vs. Pakistan |
| Jersey Number | 47 |
| Cap Number | 162 |
BJ Watling’s T20I Career
| Milestone | Details |
|---|---|
| T20I Debut | 12 November 2009 vs. Pakistan |
| Last T20I | 6 July 2014 vs. West Indies |
| Jersey Number | 47 |
| Cap Number | 41 |
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
When did BJ Watling make his debut in international cricket?
BJ Watling debuted in international cricket in a Twenty20 International against Pakistan on 12 November 2009. He made his Test debut shortly after, on 11 December 2009, against Pakistan.
What are some of BJ Watling's notable records in Test cricket?
BJ Watling is renowned for holding the New Zealand record for the most dismissals by a wicket-keeper. He played a crucial role in New Zealand’s highest 6th and 7th wicket Test partnerships and was the first New Zealand wicket-keeper batsman to score a double century in Tests.
When did BJ Watling retire from international cricket?
BJ Watling announced his retirement in May 2021 and played his final Test on 18 June 2021 against India. His retirement came after New Zealand’s victory in the 2019–21 ICC World Test Championship final.
