McCullum keen to don off gloves and play as top order bat for Kiwis

Wellington, May 17 (ANI): Wicketkeeper Brendon McCullum has reaffirmed his commitment to the New Zealand cricket team, even as talks continue to settle on his future playing role.

Comfortably his country's best wicketkeeper, McCullum, has indicated he wants to give away the gloves and continue his international career as a specialist batsman, reports the New Zealand Herald.

However, he said the issue would not be resolved any time soon.

McCullum is currently in Florida with the New Zealand team preparing for two Twenty20 internationals against Sri Lanka.

He will miss New Zealand's next assignment, a tri-series against Sri Lanka and India in Sri Lanka in August, as his wife is due to give birth.

Having played 52 Tests and 215 one-day internationals, McCullum said the issue of his future playing role was some way off from being settled.

"That's something to be decided over the next week while in terms of what's right for the balance of the team and what's right for my career," McCullum told Radio Sport.

"There are a couple of issues in terms of my body, and my back in particular. I don't want to miss out on playing any games for New Zealand and I have to work out the best way to have longevity in the game," he added.

"There are three months coming up when I will look at making a decision along with the relevant people at New Zealand Cricket and the selectors," McCullum said.

McCullum stressed a changed role would not lessen his commitment to the national side.

"I know my motives are sound, my desire is sound. I have played six years for New Zealand cricket without missing a game now, and in terms (of being self serving) I think that's a little off the mark. I certainly have a strong desire to play for New Zealand and a real passion to perform for New Zealand," he said. (ANI)