Wellington. Tim Southee has resigned from the post of New Zealand Test captain. He has taken this decision after the win in the Test series against Sri Lanka. Now Tom Latham will be the captain of New Zealand's Test team.
Tom Latham, who has captained the Test team nine times before, will take charge of the 15member Test team including Saudi on the tour of India next Friday.
Tim Southee, who has played 102 Test matches for the Black Caps since his debut in 2008, has taken 382 wickets. Only Sir Richard Hadlee has taken more Test wickets for New Zealand than him.
The 35yearold fast bowler took over the captaincy from Kane Williamson in December 2022. He has captained the team in 14 Tests (6 wins, 6 losses, 2 draws).
Saudi's own form was also a topic of discussion this year, he took only 12 wickets in the last eight Tests. Even though he played both the matches in Sri Lanka, it is possible that in India he may not be selected in the playing eleven to ensure the required team combination as per the circumstances.
Southee said, “It is an honor and a privilege to captain the Black Caps in such a special format. I have always tried to put the team first throughout my career and I believe this decision is the best for the team.” Good. I believe my best way forward for the team is to focus on my performance on the field, do my best, keep taking wickets and help New Zealand win Test matches.”
During this, coach Gary Stead praised Saudi's contribution to the Test team.
He said, “Tim is a fantastic player and a very good leader, who is greatly respected by all the players and support staff. He has been a great servant of New Zealand cricket for almost 17 years at international level and I am delighted to step down from the role of Test captain.” I respect his decision.”
Apart from this, New Zealand cricket team CEO Scott Wennink has clarified that Saudi will continue in the leadership role for the team even after leaving the captaincy.
New Zealand's threeTest series against India will begin on October 16 in Bengaluru. Soon a 15member New Zealand team can be announced for this tour. Recently, the Indian team has defeated Bangladesh 20 in the test series at home.
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Image Credit: KhasKhabar.