Ross Taylor - NZC

Picture Credit: Twitter

In a big blow to the New Zealand cricket team, veteran batsman Ross Taylor has decided to retire from international cricket. Taylor will end his stint at the highest level with 112 Tests to his name, which is equal to Daniel Vettori for most Tests played by a New Zealand cricketer.

It is worth noting that Ross Taylor became the first international player to feature in 100 games in all three formats of the game. Notably, the 37-year-old Taylor’s upcoming two-Test match series against Bangladesh at home will be his last in the whites.

He, on Thursday morning confirmed that the final Test of the two-match series at the Hagley Oval in Christchurch will be his last game in the longest format.

Check out his post here:

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

"But all good things must come to an end and the timing feels right for me. I want to thank my family, friends and all those who have helped me get to this point. There'll be plenty of time for more thank-you and reflections later in the season - but for now I want all my energy and focus to be on preparing and performing for the Black Caps this summer," Taylor added.

The two-Test match series against Bangladesh is set to commence on January 1, 2022 with the second Test scheduled to start on January 9, 2022 in Christchurch.

Additionally, Australia’s tour of New Zealand for the three-match ODI series, scheduled to commence on January 30 followed by two more ODIs (February 2 & 5) and Netherlands tour of New Zealand, scheduled for March-April will make Taylor’s last appearance in new Zealand colours.