Tim Southee has stepped down as New Zealand’s Test captain ahead of the three-match series in India, starting in Bengaluru on October 16.
New Zealand have announced that Southee has given up Test captaincy, with Tom Latham replacing him. The decision comes after their 0-2 series whitewash in Sri Lanka.
Southee stepped into the role left vacant by former captain Kane Williamson at the end of 2022. He led New Zealand in 14 Test matches since then, winning six and drawing two.
Southee believes the call to give up captaincy is in the best interests of his team: "Captaining the Black Caps 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."
He added: "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 teammates, 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."
Ravichandran Ashwin has levelled Muttiah Muralitharan's record for the most Player of the Series awards in Test cricket 👏
— Wisden (@WisdenCricket) October 1, 2024
Read here ➡️ https://t.co/JCSOw6wl9g pic.twitter.com/SI9tzZh2xW
Southee's recent form has been a concern
Southee’s form has been scratchy this year. In his last eight Tests, he has taken 12 wickets. He featured during the series loss against Sri Lanka, managing only two wickets at an average of 78.50.
With Latham now being the Test captain, Southee will be competing with the likes of Matt Henry, Will O’Rourke and Ben Sears for a place in the XI for the Test series in India. O'Rourke was the pick of the pacers in the Sri Lanka series, while Henry and Sears didn't play.
Latham has previously led New Zealand in nine Tests between 2020 and 2022.
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