Ross Taylor announces retirement from international cricket

Veteran New Zealand batter Ross Taylor has announced his retirement from international cricket. New Zealand are due to play two Test matches against Bangladesh, followed by ODIs against Australia and Netherlands. The New Zealand Tests will be Taylor's last series in whites. He will skip the following Tests against South Africa but will play the ODIs against Australia and Netherlands, that'll mark the end of a phenomenal career. Taylor has played 110 Tests and 233 ODIs for New Zealand. He is the leading run-scorer for the team in both formats.

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The 37-year-old made his international debut in ODI against West Indies in 2006. A year later, he got to make his Test debut against South Africa. Taylor has been at forefront of many memorable wins for the team. He was also part of the Kane Williamson-led side that secured a win in the inaugural Test Championship against India. Taylor had earlier expressed his wish to play the 2023 50-over World Cup in 2023 but now has decided to bring curtains down on his glorious 15-year cricketing career.

"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,” he added.

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Today I'm announcing my retirement from international cricket at the conclusion of the home summer, two more tests against Bangladesh, and six odi’s against Australia & the Netherlands. Thank you for 17 years of incredible support. It’s been an honour to represent my country #234 pic.twitter.com/OTy1rsxkYp

— Ross Taylor (@RossLTaylor) December 29, 2021

Given that the upcoming home season will be Taylor's last for the Kiwis, he is keener than ever to do well for New Zealand and end his career on a high note. "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 Blackcaps this summer," Taylor concluded.