New Zealand paceman Tim Southee is set to play his final Test series against England, potentially ending a distinguished career that has seen him become his country's all-time top wicket-taker.

The 36-year-old fast bowler, who has claimed 770 wickets across all formats, is preparing to retire after the series, which begins next week in Christchurch.

However, Southee has confirmed that he will make himself available for selection if New Zealand qualifies for the World Test Championship (WTC) final in 2025.

Southee, who made his Test debut in 2008, expressed contentment with his decision to retire, stating that playing for the Black Caps has been "the greatest honour and privilege."

Reflecting on his career, he noted that facing England in the series – an opponent against whom he began his Test journey – felt like the perfect way to close this chapter.

The final Test is scheduled to take place at his home ground, Seddon Park in Hamilton, further adding to the significance of the moment.

Despite a recent dip in form, with Southee struggling to make an impact in New Zealand’s previous home summer and taking just six wickets in four Tests, he remains a key figure in the squad for the England series.

He will be part of the 14-man squad announced by New Zealand Cricket, which also includes two uncapped players, Otago's Jacob Duffy and Wellington’s Nathan Smith. Smith, the leading wicket-taker in New Zealand's Plunket Shield, earned his first Test call-up after a stellar domestic season.

Former captain Kane Williamson has also been included in the squad, having recovered from a groin injury that kept him out of the recent tour of India. The Black Caps' selectors have opted to bolster their pace attack, recalling spinners Ajaz Patel and Ish Sodhi to make way for seam-bowling options, including all-rounders Glenn Phillips and Mitch Santner, who will feature in the second and third Tests.

The England series is crucial for New Zealand's World Test Championship hopes. A strong performance could propel them into the top two spots needed to secure a place in the WTC final at Lord’s in June 2025.

With New Zealand currently sitting fourth in the standings, just behind Australia, India, and Sri Lanka, the Black Caps are eyeing a WTC final berth as they bid to add another international title to their collection.

New Zealand selector Sam Wells acknowledged the significance of the series, not just for the team’s WTC aspirations but also as a fitting farewell to one of the country's greatest-ever cricketers.

"It’s obviously a big series for the side in terms of the World Test Championship, and to also now be farewelling someone like Tim Southee only raises it up further,” Wells said. "I am sure the team and the public will want to give Tim a fitting send-off."