Tim Southee Steps Down as New Zealand Test Captain Following Series Defeats
Tim Southee has officially stepped down as the Test captain of New Zealand after a challenging run that saw the team suffer consecutive 0-2 series defeats against Australia and Sri Lanka. Following a disappointing series finale in Galle, where New Zealand was humbled by an innings and 154 runs, Southee has made the decision to focus on his personal performance on the field.
Despite a competitive start to the series, where New Zealand lost the first Test by just 68 runs, the second match highlighted the team’s struggles. Southee’s departure as captain paves the way for Tom Latham, who will lead the Black Caps in their upcoming Test series in India.
“I believe the best way I can serve the team moving forward is by concentrating on my own performances and regaining my best form to help New Zealand win Test matches,” Southee stated. The 35-year-old has been a significant contributor to New Zealand cricket, playing a crucial role in their 2021 World Test Championship victory over India.
However, Southee’s recent performances have come under scrutiny, with 18 months passing since he last took more than two wickets in a single innings. His struggles were evident in the home series against Australia, where he recorded only four wickets at an average of 61, followed by a disappointing two wickets at an average of 78.5 during the Sri Lanka series.
New Zealand coach Gary Stead praised Southee’s decision as a sign of his leadership and humility, emphasizing that the veteran paceman still has an important role to play in red-ball cricket. “It’s not easy to give up something you love, but Tim made this decision with the team’s best interests in mind,” Stead remarked.
Tom Latham, who has been appointed as the new captain, will lead New Zealand in a three-Test series against India starting on October 16 in Bengaluru. A 15-man squad, which will include Southee, is expected to be announced later this week. Latham himself is also seeking to regain form, having not scored a century in almost two years.
