Cricket: Canning off to Perth

Auckland allrounder Tama Canning may have played his last first class cricket game in New Zealand.

Canning, 29, announced today he was moving to Perth and will consider a career outside the game. He would try to play in England in the off-season.

Australian-born Canning said he had been considering his cricket future in New Zealand for some time. He had decided to return to Perth.

"I have thoroughly enjoyed playing for Auckland for the past seven years and take pride in the success of the Auckland team in the State Championship," he said.

"I am also very proud of the four appearances I had for the Blackcaps in ODI.

"However, in recent months I have not had the same desire or commitment to meet the challenges of professional cricket and believe it is time for me to move in a new direction."

Canning played for Auckland since 1999 and the Blacks Caps in 2003-05.

- NZPA