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'The Naenae Express has run out of steam' - At 68, Ewen Chatfield calls time on cricket career

January 27, 2019
Ewen Chatfield, New Zealand Black Caps, (International 1975-1989), Archive. Photo: PHOTOSPORT

At the tender age of 68 years young, former Black Caps bowler Ewen Chatfield has called time on his cricket career.

Affectionately known as the Naenae Express, Chatfield is perhaps best known for his role in a devastating new ball partnership with Sir Richard Hadlee, playing 43 Tests, taking 123 wickets at an average of 32.17, and 114 ODIs, where he managed 140 scalps at an average of 25.84.

However, while he was best known for his exploits with the ball, Chatfield's biggest ambition in cricket came with the bat in hand, playing into his late sixties with the desire of reaching an elusive maiden hundred.

It was this desire that saw him continue to pad up every weekend for Naenae Old Boys, the club he's represented since 1968, with the hope of finally reaching three figures.

Yesterday, though, Chatfield pulled stumps on his illustrious goal, dismissed for a golden duck in what would turn out to be his final appearance, batting for Naenae Old Boys 1A against Eastern Suburbs.

Speaking to Stuff afterwards, Chatfield told of the decision to walk away from the game he loves.

"It might seem silly but I have standards, even at 68, and if I can't play to those standards I thought it is time to flag it," he said.

"The Naenae Express has run out of steam, I would not mind that as a heading."

Chatfield's services to cricket didn't go unnoticed. He's been recognised with an MBE for his troubles.

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