Renowned NZ cricket and rugby pundit Ian Smith parts ways with Sky

Renowned New Zealand cricket and rugby broadcaster Ian Smith has left Sky TV after 23 years.

The 65-year-old, who played cricket for the Black Caps, confirmed the news on his radio show with SENZ on Monday.

He said the decision was done by "mutual agreement".

"I can reveal I am no longer a Sky TV contractor," Smith said. "I finished on the 31st of December. Even now, at my tender age, I have to reset my sights and goals and it's damned exciting, I have got to say.

"Sky TV has a changing face now, a long way removed from this old scaly, sunburnt one. There's a new breed, if you haven't noticed, and that's the way it's trending away from the career broadcaster.

"Like Nisbo (Grant Nisbett) and TJ (Tony Johnson), those guys in particular, and let's hope it's a long time before they are away from our screens. Ultimate, dedicated pros and a pleasure to work alongside."

"They’ve got to go. The throw’s got to go to the keeper’s end! HE’S GOT IT! England have won the World Cup by the barest of margins. By the barest of all margins."Congratulations on an incredible 23-year career with Sky Sports, Ian Smith. ?????pic.twitter.com/SSssjSUhvX

Smith added that he and the broadcaster agreed it was time to for him to move on.

"There's a purpose and a direction towards Maori and Pacific input and, of course, female sport, like never before. The way of the world as they say.

"So it was mutual that we part ways."

Smith, a wicketkeeper-batsman, played 63 Tests and 98 ODIs for New Zealand between 1980 and 1992.