Former New Zealand captain Brendon McCullum announces retirement

Wellington: Former New Zealand captain Brendon McCullum has announced his retirement from cricket at the age of 37.

McCullum retired from international cricket in 2016 but has continued to play in Twenty20 leagues around the world, most recently in Canada. He was due to play in the Euro T20 Slam but has advised organizers of his decision to retire.

McCullum said he will now concentrate on television commentary and coaching.

In a statement posted on Twitter, McCullum says he goes into retirement "with pride and satisfaction."

"As much as I'm proud of what I've achieved in my 20 year professional career - more than I ever could have dreamed of when I first entered the game - I have felt the drive to keep going harder to maintain in recent months," McCullum said.

"My style of cricket has always been full noise, full throttle. From Culling Park to Lord's and everything in between, there have been some wonderful memories," he continued. "Unfortunately, the sacrifices needed and commitment required to play that type of cricket have now become too great."

McCullum said while he is sad to leave the game behind, he is excited about the future.