Tim Southee steps-down as the test-captain of New Zealand, Latham set to take over: Following New Zealand’s embarrassing 0-2 series whitewash versus Sri Lanka, their test-skipper Tim Southee has decided to step-down from the leadership post. He took over the captaincy reins from Kane Willaimson after the right-handed batter relinquished his leadership duties in December of 2022 and since then, the Kiwis have not been at their best in the five-day format.
They have performed in a decent manner in home conditions but in away conditions, their performance has been abysmal, losing versus Australia, Sri Lanka, and England since 2022. Their series versus Bangladesh and Pakistan ended in draws as well.
Holding himself responsible for the poor form of the Black Caps in Test Cricket, Southee has decided to relinquish his captaincy duties. 32-year-old Wicketkeeper Batsman Tom Latham will be taking over the captaincy reins from the fast-bowler, beginning with the forthcoming three-match Test-Series versus the Indian Cricket Team.
The Southpaw has led the 2021 WTC Winners previously on nine occasions, in the absence of former skipper Kane Williamson. Southee, on the other hand, led New Zealand in 14 encounters, winning six matches and losing the same number of games as well, while two encounters ended in a draw.
Announcing his decision of stepping down from the leadership post, Tim said that it was a pleasure to lead the team and now he wants to concentrate on his performance on the Cricket field to assist New Zealand in winning more Test-matches. He also expressed his support for Latham and his fellow teammates, particularly the young speedsters of the team.
“Leading the Kiwis in Test Cricket which is a very close format to me, has been an absolute pleasure and privilege. Throughout my career, I’ve always tried to prioritise the team, and I believe this is the correct decision for the team. I hope that focusing on my performance on the field and returning to my best will allow me to continue picking up wickets and helping New Zealand secure wins in Test-matches,” Southee said.’
“I will continue to encourage my fellow teammates, particularly the exciting young bowlers, particularly the exciting new bowlers emerging on the international-stage, as I have always done. I wish Tom the best of luck as the skipper of New Zealand, and he knows I’ll be there to assist him along the way, just as he has for me over the years,” he added.
Southee’s form off late in the five-day format has been concerning. The 35-year-old speedster has managed to dismiss just 12 batters in the last eight test-matches he has featured in and therefore, his selection in the starting XI for the Test-Series versus India will be scrutinised heavily.
The 2021 WTC winners will kick off their three-match Test-Series against India in Chennai from the 16th of October onwards, followed by the second test match at the Maharashtra Cricket Association stadium, Pune from 24th October and the third & final match at the iconic Wankhede Stadium of Mumbai from the 1st of November.
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For more information, visit the official websites of New Zealand Cricket and ICC.
