Tim Southee steps down as New Zealand Test captain; Tom Latham takes over

After New Zealand’s abject performance in Sri Lanka, Tim Southee made the decision to resign as Test captain. After Kane Williamson left the role in December 2022, he assumed leadership, and the Black Caps haven’t looked good in the long run. They have a respectable record at home, but since the 2022 season, they have lost to Australia, England, and Sri Lanka away from home. Additionally, they have drawn series in Pakistan and Bangladesh.

Southee has resigned from his role in order to take responsibility for his actions. Tom Latham, an experienced keeper-batter, will assume leadership during the forthcoming three-match Test series against India. In nine prior Test matches when Williamson was unavailable, he led New Zealand. In the meanwhile, Southee has led the squad in 14 Test matches, with six victories and six defeats, with two draws.

In announcing his intention to resign, Southee said he felt honoured to be the team’s captain and that he now wanted to concentrate on improving his play to assist New Zealand win more Test matches. In addition, he expressed his support for Latham and his teammates, particularly the young New Zealand pacers.

Being the Blackcaps’ captain in a format that holds such significance for me has been an incredible honor and privilege. Throughout my career, I have always attempted to prioritize the needs of the team, and I think that this choice is best for the group. Southee stated, “I think the best thing I can do for the team going ahead is to concentrate on my on-field performances and go back to my best, to keep taking wickets and helping New Zealand win Test matches.

“As I always have, I will stand by my teammates, especially the talented young bowlers who are making their mark on the world scene.

Also Read: ‘Very Tough’: Tim Southee reflects on New Zealand’s Test series loss to Sri Lanka

As he has done for me over the years, I wish Tom the best of luck in the role and he knows that I’ll be there to assist him along the way,” he continued.

 

View this post on Instagram

 

A post shared by BLACKCAPS (@blackcapsnz)

Southee’s own form, though, is a cause for concern. His selection in the Playing XI for the India series will be scrutinized because he has only taken 12 wickets in the last eight Test matches.