Tim Southee resigns as New Zealand test captain ahead of India series, Tom Latham named new skipper

Under Tim Southee, New Zealand have lost test series to Australia and Sri Lanka.

Ahead of the three-match test series in India, Tim Southee has stepped down as the New Zealand test captain, saying that his decision “is the best for the team”.

Southee, who had taken over from Kane Williamson, led the Black Caps in 14 test matches, out of which, they won six, lost six and two were drawn.

This decision of Southee’s comes on the back of back-to-back test series losses, against Australia at home earlier in the year and against Sri Lanka in Galle last month.

Southee said, “Captaining the Blackcaps in a format that’s so special to me, has been an absolute honour and a privilege. I’ve 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.

“I will, as I’ve always done, continue to support my team-mates, 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.”

Tom Latham replaces Southee as full-time New Zealand test captain

Opener Tom Latham, who has led New Zealand in nine tests in interim capacity between 2020 and 2022 when Williamson was injured or unavailable, takes over from Southee in the full-time role.

The IND vs NZ test series will commence on October 16 in Bengaluru.

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