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'Absolute legend': Tributes flow as Ross Taylor announces retirement

Andrew Reid
·5-min read
Seen here, New Zealand batter Ross Taylor celebrates after scoring a Test century.
New Zealand great Ross Taylor is retiring from international cricket after a glittering career for the Black Caps. Pic: Getty

The incredible career of New Zealand legend Ross Taylor is being celebrated across the cricket world after confirmation the 37-year-old is set to retire from the sport.

Taylor said the two-Test series against Bangladesh starting on Saturday will be his last in Test whites and he will call stumps on his career after the one-day internationals against Australia and the Netherlands in February and March.

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The 37-year-old has been a mainstay in the New Zealand batting order since making his debut in 2006, amassing a plethora of records and achievements, notably the most runs by a New Zealander (18,074) and most appearances (445).

"It's been an amazing journey and I feel incredibly fortunate to have represented my country for as long as I have," he said.

"It's been such a privilege to play with and against some of the greats of the game and to have created so many memories and friendships along the way.

"But all good things must come to an end and the timing feels right for me."

Black Caps coach Gary Stead said Taylor would undoubtedly bow out as one of New Zealand's greats.

"Ross has always been a hugely respected member of the side and we're thankful for his contributions to the Black Caps over an incredible career.

"His skills and temperament as a batsman have been world-class and his ability to perform at such a high level for so long speaks volumes of his longevity and professionalism.

"Seeing him hit the winning runs in Southampton to help win our first ICC World title is a moment I will never forget and I'm sure it's the same for many of the fans."

Ross Taylor tributes pour in from around the world

News of the popular batter's impending retirement led to an outpouring of tributes from fans on social media.

Cricket farewells 'world-class player'

New Zealand captain Kane Williamson, unavailable for the Bangladesh series while he rehabilitates from an elbow injury, said Taylor had given his all to the New Zealand team over the years.

"He's a world-class player, our best with the bat over such a long period of time and personally it's been a pleasure to be involved in so many partnerships with him across the formats," Williamson said.

"We've shared some pretty cool moments together - most recently the World Test Championship final, which was obviously really special."

Pictured left, New Zealand's Ross Taylor alongside captain Kane Williamson on the final day of the ICC World Test Championship final.
New Zealand's Ross Taylor (L) and captain Kane Williamson celebrate victory on the final day of the ICC World Test Championship final against India. Pic: Getty (GLYN KIRK via Getty Images)

Taylor's achievements include most Test runs by a New Zealander (7,584), most ODI runs (8,581) most ODI 100s for New Zealand (21) and most 100s in all formats (40).

He is also the first player from any country to make 100 international appearances in each of the three formats.

Taylor also holds the record for the highest Test score in Australia by a visiting batter (290 at Perth in 2015).

with agencies

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