Retirement will be permament for me: McCullum

Retiring New Zealand skipper Brendon McCullum admits he is surprised Michael Clarke has opted to make a comeback, saying he won't be doing the same.

The McCullum farewell tour began today in Auckland, where a three-match ODI series started against Australia.

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It ends when the trans-Tasman Test series finishes later this month in McCullum's adopted home of Christchurch.

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McCullum laughed off suggestions that he, like Clarke, might have second thoughts about retirement.

"No, I wouldn't think so," McCullum said. "I was a little bit surprised to read that (Clarke was making a comeback).

"I guess everyone is different and everyone makes their own decisions based on how they're feeling and how their lives are panning out.

"If Michael does make a comeback, then I'm sure he'd make it a success as well."

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McCullum, who will continue to play Twenty20 cricket for franchises, could hardly feel better about handing over the reins of his national team.

"We've got the leaders in the group who can take it to a new level," he said.

"It's just a timing thing and it's nice to get out now when people still kind of like you and you're able to make some contributions.

"There comes a time when you have to step out of the spotlight at some point and there's other things that you want to do in your life as well."

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Kane Williamson will lead the side at the upcoming Twenty20 World Cup and is expected to be confirmed as ODI and Test skipper soon after.

McCullum has addressed his teammates, telling them to focus on the opposition instead of their outgoing skipper.

"Realistically, it doesn't count for much once the game gets under way and that's the message that has permeated through the group over the last couple of days," he said.

"Play what's in front of you, and that's not just for every game but every single ball."

Steve Smith paid tribute to McCullum, calling him a terrific player and leader.

"No doubt, they will want to send him off in the best way possible and it is up to us to not make that happen," Smith said.