"I got frustrated with everyone"- Glenn Phillips on his journey in New Zealand cricket

New Zealand’s Glenn Phillips stands out as one of the most versatile cricketers globally, with a remarkable ability to excel in various roles across the formats at any level. Known for his explosive batting and impressive fielding, Phillips' adaptability is evident in his transition from a white-ball wicketkeeper to a red-ball spinner.

In March this year, Phillips achieved a significant milestone by taking his first five-wicket haul in Test cricket against the defending World Test Champions, Australia. He became the first New Zealand spinner to secure a five-wicket haul against Australia in Test cricket on home soil in 16 years.

Glenn Phillips reveals how he finds new passion in the game after moving away from wicketkeeping

Phillips was initially in 2018 known as a powerful middle-order batter and wicketkeeper. However, the star cricketer soon felt restricted by his role. The limited movement and involvement in the game as a wicketkeeper began to frustrate him.

He expressed dissatisfaction with being confined to a small area, where inactivity during play made him question the enjoyment of his role. An injury towards the end of the year provided Phillips with an opportunity to rethink his career.

The Kiwi star revealed that his back injury gave him a reason to step away from wicketkeeping. He made the decision to inform New Zealand Cricket (NZC) that he preferred not to be selected as a wicketkeeper, opting instead to focus on roles that he found more fulfilling.

This allowed him to pursue his passion for other aspects of the game, ultimately leading to his success as a spin all-rounder. Phillips revealed his deep passion for running and utilizing his physical abilities.

He feels fortunate to have a naturally athletic body, and he wants to make the most of it. His enjoyment comes from actively using his body while running, diving, or giving his all on the field.

I love being able to use my body: Glenn Phillips

Glenn Phillips was quoted as saying by Wisden: “I got to the point where I got frustrated with everyone in the field. You get stuck in one position where you can only move 10 meters to your left and to your right. If the ball doesn’t come to you then there’s no movement, you’re not involved in the game at all and I felt like it was a waste of time.

It was no fun. There’s no movement, no running, and what’s the point of doing something if you’re not enjoying something? I hated keeping long before that, the back injury was the perfect excuse. It started by telling New Zealand cricket that I didn’t want them to pick me anymore if I was going to play as a keeper... I jumped off that boat to live by my sword and die by it - thankfully it worked out.”

Phillips signed off by saying, “I just love running. I love being able to use my body. From an athletics perspective, I’ve been given a genetically prime body, and I see it as my responsibility to use it well. I’m not going to have it forever.” Now, he is just looking to make the most of his chances across the formats.