New Zealand great Ross Taylor to call time on international career

New Zealand
Ross Taylor

New Zealand stalwart Ross Taylor will call time on his international career after the Black Caps wrap up their home summer.

The Test series against Bangladesh will be Taylor’s last in the game’s ultimate format while he is likely to play his final match for New Zealand in the ODI series against the Netherlands.

The 37-year-old made the announcement via Twitter this week.

Taylor has been rocksteady for New Zealand since making his international debut in 2006, and is currently their most prolific run-scorer in Test cricket (7584) and ODIs (8591). Taylor’s 18,074 across the three international formats is also a record for his country.

The first player from any country to make 100 international appearances in all three formats, Taylor’s career was capped off at Lord’s earlier in the year, hitting the winning runs in New Zealand’s World Test Championship Final victory, giving the Black Caps their first major ICC trophy.

“It’s been an amazing journey and I feel incredibly fortunate to have represented my country for as long as I have,” Taylor said.

“It’s been such a privilege to play with and against some of the greats of the game and to have created so many memories and friendships along the way.

“But all good things must come to an end and the timing feels right for me.

“I want to thank my family, friends and all those who have helped me get to this point.

New Zealand skipper Kane Williamson was the first to laud his long-time teammate’s career.

“Ross has been at the core of the side for so long and can be extremely proud of having brought the game in this country to a better place.

“He’s a world class player, our best with the bat over such a long period of time and personally it’s been a pleasure to be involved in so many partnerships with him across the formats.

“We’ve shared some pretty cool moments together – most recently the World Test Championship Final which was obviously really special.

“As a senior player and a leader in the group he’s been a fantastic support person for me, especially out there in the field being able to tap into his experience.

Black Caps Coach Gary Stead also praised Taylor’s service to New Zealand cricket.

“Ross has always been a hugely respected member of the side and we’re thankful for his contributions to the Black Caps over an incredible career.

“His skills and temperament as a batsman have been world-class and his ability to perform at such a high level for so long speaks volumes of his longevity and professionalism.

“His experience has held the side together on countless occasions and his catching record speaks for itself. There’s no doubt we’re going to miss him when he’s gone.

“Seeing him hit the winning runs in Southampton to help win our first ICC World title is a moment I will never forget and I’m sure it’s the same for many of the fans.

Taylor continues to train in preparation for the start of New Zealand’s home summer, and remains focused on delivering for his side and ending on a high.

“There’ll be plenty of time for more thank-yous and reflections later in the season – but for now I want all my energy and focus to be on preparing and performing for the Black Caps this summer.”

Ross Taylor

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