New Zealand's greatest ever run-scorer Ross Taylor has announced he will retire from his international career at the end of this summer.
Taylor said the upcoming two-match Test series against Bangladesh, starting Saturday, and the ODIs against Australia and Netherlands later this summer would be his last for the Blacks Caps, calling time on a tremendous cricket career spanning 16 years.
Taylor, 37, has been the centrepiece of the Kiwis' batting order since his international debut in 2006, the Wellington native maintaining the record for most runs scored in all three formats (18,074).
His 445 appearances for the Black Caps are also the most of any player,= and Taylor is just one of four players to play more than 100 Tests.
Announcing this summer would mark the end of his Blacks Caps career, Taylor said it was a difficult decision but the right time to make it.
“It’s been an amazing journey and I feel incredibly fortunate to have represented my country for as long as I have,” he 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.
“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.”
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
Blacks Caps captain Kane Williamson led the tributes for Taylor, saying the veteran batter has been an important figure of support during his time as skipper.
“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,” Williamson said.
“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.
“It’s a really exciting time for Ross when he can reflect on so many amazing moments throughout his career and I know all the guys are also looking forward to sharing the occasions with him as he is such a special player to this team.”
Black Caps coach Gary Stead said Taylor would be forever recognised as one of New Zealand's finest cricketers.
“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,” Stead said.
“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.
“I know Ross is really focused on performing well in these remaining series and going out on the right note.”