Ross Taylor has been a mainstay of the New Zealand Batting Order since his debut in 2006, racking up a plethora of records and accomplishments including the most runs by a New Zealander (18,074) and the most appearances (445).
New Zealand cricket icon Ross Taylor confirmed on Thursday that he is stepping down from international cricket. Taylor said, the two-test series against Bangladesh that begins on Saturday will be his last in test whites and will mark career milestones after the one-day international matches against Australia and the Netherlands in February and March. The 37-year-old has been a mainstay of the New Zealand Batting Order since his debut in 2006, racking up a plethora of records and achievements, including most runs by a New Zealander (18,074) and the greater number of appearances. (445).
“It has been an amazing journey and I feel incredibly lucky to have represented my country for so long,” he said.
“It has been a privilege to play with and against some of the greats in the game and to have created so many memories and friendships along the way.
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"But all good things must come to an end and it seems to me the timing is right."
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
Black Caps coach Gary Stead has said Taylor will undoubtedly retire as one of New Zealand's greats.
“Ross has always been a highly respected member of the team and we are grateful for his contribution to the Black Caps during an incredible career.
“His skills and temperament as a batsman are world class and his ability to perform at such a high level for so long speaks volumes for his longevity and professionalism.
"Watching him score the winning runs at Southampton to help win our first ICC world title is a moment I will never forget and I'm sure it is the same for many of the fans."
New Zealand captain Kane Williamson, unavailable for the Bangladesh series as he recovers from an elbow injury, said Taylor has given everything for the New Zealand team over the years.
"He's a world class player, our best at bat over such a long period, and personally it has been a pleasure to be involved in so many partnerships with him in all formats," said Williamson.
"We had some great moments together, most recently the World Test Championship final, which was obviously very special."
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Taylor's accomplishments include most of New Zealand's test runs (7584), most ODI's runs (8581), most of ODI 100s for New Zealand (21), most of ODI 100s in all formats (40), the first player from any country to make 100 international appearances in each of the three formats, and the highest test score in Australia by a visiting player (290 at Perth 2015).