New Zealand have announced that Tim Southee has stepped down as their Test captain ahead of the upcoming 3-match series against India that will commence from October 16. Southee is set to be replaced by wicketkeeper-batter Tom Latham as the skipper.
Southee has been in charge of New Zealand’s Test team since Kane Williamson relinquished the role at the end of 2022, captaining the side to 6 victories and 2 draws from 14 Test matches.
The 35-year-old believes that him stepping down from captaincy was in the best interests of the team and said that he will support Latham as the new captain.
“Captaining the Black Caps in a format that’s so special to me, has been an absolute honour and a privilege. I’ve always tried to put the team first throughout my career and I believe this decision is the best for the team. I believe the way I can best serve the team moving forward is focusing on my performances on the field and getting back to my best, to continue taking wickets and helping New Zealand win Test matches,” Southee said.
“I will, as I’ve always done, continue to support my teammates, especially the exciting young bowlers making their way on the international stage. I wish Tom all the best in the role and he knows I’ll be there to support him on his journey, as he has done for me over the years,” Southee added.
New Zealand coach Gary Stead paid tribute to Southee who has given valiant contributions to the side in red-ball cricket for over a decade now.
“Tim’s a fantastic player and a very good leader who is held in high regard by the players and support staff. He’s been a great servant of New Zealand Cricket over nearly 17 years playing on the international stage, and I’d like to acknowledge his humility in stepping down from the role as Test captain,” Stead said.
“It’s not easy giving up something you love, but Tim is a true team-man and he’s made the decision with the team’s best interests at heart. He’s one of our greatest ever players and we still very much see him playing a part in our Test side moving forward,” Stead added.
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