Fast bowler Tim Southee resigned as the Test captain of New Zealand, days after the BlackCaps were whitewashed 2-0 in a Test series in Sri Lanka. Opening batter Tom Latham will lead New Zealand in an upcoming three-match Test series against India, starting October 16. Tim Southee said he decided to step down as captain in the team’s best interests. Tom Latham, who led New Zealand in nine Tests between 2020 and 2022, will assume the role for the second time in his career.
Tim Southee stood down as New Zealand captain on Wednesday in the wake of their heavy Test series defeat in Sri Lanka and will be replaced by Tom Latham. Less than two years after inheriting the role from Kane Williamson, veteran seam bowler Tim Southee said it is “best for the team” that he focus on his contribution as a player and wished Latham well. Opening batsman Tom Latham, who has led the Black Caps in nine Tests, will take charge full-time on the three-Test tour of India starting in Bangalore on October 16.
Tim Southee career as captain for NZ in tests
Tim Southee, 35, led New Zealand in 14 Tests since taking over from Kane Williamson in 2022. He won six and lost six while drawing two as the skipper.
However, the fast bowler could not perform to the best of his abilities while leading the team. In 14 matches as captain, Tim Southee took 35 wickets at an average of 38.60, well above his career average of 28.99. Tim Southee managed just two wickets in the two Tests in Sri Lanka after bowling 49 overs.
Tim Southee has played 102 Tests for the BLACKCAPS since debuting in 2008, claiming 382 wickets, second only to Sir Richard Hadlee.
The 35-year-old has captained the side in 14 Tests (6 wins, 6 losses, 2 draws) since taking over from Kane Williamson in December 2022, and said the decision to step down was made in the best interests of the team.
However, New Zealand’s results have dipped over the last two years, including a 2-0 mauling from Sri Lanka in the two-Test series in Galle. Tim Southee opened up on his decision on stepping down from captainship role for New Zealand.
Tim Southee quits New Zealand Test captaincy, Tom Latham to lead side in 3 match series vs India
A New Zealand Cricket statement said Southee would be included in the 15-man tour squad to be named later this week. Tim Southee said it was an “absolute honor” to lead New Zealand in 14 Tests since December 2022, resulting in six wins, six losses and two draws.
However, New Zealand’s results have dipped over the last two years, including a 2-0 mauling from Sri Lanka in the two-Test series in Galle.
“I’ve always tried to put the team first throughout my career and I believe this decision is the best for the team,” Southee said in a statement.
“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.”
“I will, as I have 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,” he added.
Tim Southee also extended his support to his teammates after stepping down as captaining the side.
New Zealand coach Gary Stead praises Tim Southee for his contribution to NZ cricket
New Zealand coach Gary Stead praised Tim Southee for his contribution to the team as captain and said the fast bowler will continue to be a crucial part of their plans in Test cricket.
“It is 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 is one of our greatest ever players and we still very much see him playing a part in our Test side moving forward,” Stead said.
“He has been a great servant of New Zealand Cricket over nearly 17 years playing on the international stage, and I would like to acknowledge his humility in stepping down from the role as Test captain.”
New Zealand are yet to announce their squad for the Test series in India, but they confirmed Southee will be part of a ‘strong 15-man squad’ for the tough challenge in the sub-continent.