New Delhi, India

On Wednesday (Oct 2), New Zealand Test captain Tim Southee stepped down from the post ahead of the three-match Test series versus India. Prior to the three Tests, starting on Oct 16 in India, Southee has announced his decision to step down as the red-ball captain after leading the side in only 14 matches. Given the dip in his own performance since taking over, Southee feels he can best serve the side by focusing on his bowling and getting back to his usual form. Tom Latham will take over from Southee in the forthcoming India series.

Advertisment

In a statement, shared by the Black Caps, Southee said, "Captaining the BlackCaps in a format that’s so special to me, has been an absolute honour and a privilege."

He opined, "I have 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."

Also read: Captaincy has added significant workload: Babar Azam drops a bomb, steps down as Pakistan's white-ball captain

Advertisment

Southee added, "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."

Meanwhile, NZ coach Gary Stead added, "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."

"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."

Advertisment

Southee led NZ in 14 Tests with six wins and equal number of losses, along with two draws. However, the pacer could not perform to the best of his abilities as skipper. In 14 Tests, Southee accounted for 35 wickets at an average of 38.60; i.e. well above his career average of 28.99. The 35-year-old only managed two wickets in his side's two Tests in Sri Lanka, which they lost 2-0, after bowling 49 overs.

Latham, who has led the Kiwis in nine Tests from 2020-22, will take over from Southee -- who succeeded Kane Williamson -- with his first assignment against the daunting Rohit Sharma-led Indian team.