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[Saba Sports News] The Auckland Aces’ upcoming Super Smash T20 match against the Wellington Firebirds on January 4 will be a tribute to the remarkable career of New Zealand’s Martin Guptill. Dubbed ‘Thank You Gup’ day, it’s a celebration of the 37-year-old’s contributions to both New Zealand and Auckland Cricket.
In honor of the event, Eden Park Outer Oval will be temporarily renamed ‘The Martin Guptill Oval’ for this testimonial match. Additionally, in a lasting tribute to Guptill’s impact, the premier T20 competition will be named the Martin Guptill Cup starting from the 2024-25 season.
Guptill has clarified that this special day does not mark his retirement, as he intends to continue playing franchise cricket. Notably, he hasn’t played for the national team since October 2022.
Iain Laxon, Auckland Cricket CEO, commended Guptill, acknowledging him as one of New Zealand’s greatest white-ball cricketers. Laxon emphasized Guptill’s significant domestic and international contributions, creating memorable moments for fans and the cricket community.
“Martin is without doubt one of our country’s finest ever white-ball cricketers, and we wanted to take the opportunity to celebrate and recognise what he has done for cricket,” Laxon shared. “His career is one that feels at times like an ongoing highlights reel, there are so many moments where he has made hugely significant contributions at a domestic level for Auckland or on the international stage for New Zealand. Those efforts create memories for all of us, and we want everyone to come along and join us in saying thanks to him for all those special moments,” he added.
Guptill, hailed as an Auckland cricket legend, debuted in T20 for the team in 2006. He is the team’s top run-scorer in the format, with 2,313 runs at an average of 37.91 and a strike rate of 133.23.