Brendon McCullum to retire at the end of 2019 to move into coaching

McCullum has called time on his association with Brisbane Heat, with Friday's game against Melbourne Stars looking set to be his last in the franchise's colours at the end of an eight-year stay which has brought him nearly 1,000 runs

The current campaign will be Brendon McCullum's last in the Big Bash, the Kiwi has confirmed.

McCullum has called time on his association with Brisbane Heat, with Friday's game against Melbourne Stars looking set to be his last in the franchise's colours at the end of a stay which has brought him nearly 1,000 runs.

The former New Zealand captain told his team-mates about his decision after Brisbane beat Adelaide Strikers on Sunday.

"I have absolutely loved playing for the Heat. The fans have been amazing with their support and I have enjoyed seeing the pleasure they get from coming to our matches and having fun," McCullum said.

^{Brendon McCullum is calling time on his Big Bash career}

"I've had a great time playing with my teammates, and it was a privilege to captain them. Coming into Brisbane each year before the start of the competition was always a highlight.

"Being a part of the BBL has been a special part of my career. Having been there at the start, and then seeing it grow and evolve into one of the best T20 competitions in the world has been great to be part of.

"I think the BBL will get stronger and better from here too as everyone becomes more comfortable with the format and the clubs continue to be bold in their planning and preparations."

The 37-year-old still intends to play in the shortest format for the remainder of this year but will soon bring an end to his illustrious career.

"I will continue to play T20 cricket in 2019 in various competitions around the world and will then look to transition into a coaching career," McCullum said.

"The prospect of being able to transfer the skills, experience and leadership I have been lucky enough to bank over my long T20 and also international career into coaching is very exciting."