Ross Taylor Announced His Retirement From International Cricket

Last ODI series was played against Netherlands

Kiwi legend Ross Taylor has announced his retirement from international cricket on Thursday. Taylor will play his final test against Bangladesh, where he will equal Daniel Vettori’s record of 112 tests for New Zealand.

The 37-year-old has been an important part of the Kiwis squad. He made his debut in 2006. Taylor has scored the most runs for New Zealand with 18,074 runs with 445 appearances.

He is the only player so far in the history of the game to have played 100 matches in each of the three international formats.

Ross Taylor will not feature in the Test series against South Africa but will be part of the ODI series in Australia in February and against the Netherlands at home in early April.

The fourth and the final ODI against the Netherlands will be Ross’s final appearance for New Zealand.

“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 Thursday.

Today I'm announcing my retirement from international cricket at the conclusion of the home summer, two more tests against Bangladesh, and six odi’s against Australia & the Netherlands. Thank you for 17 years of incredible support. It’s been an honour to represent my country #234

“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.”

Taylor made his Test debut back in 2008 against South Africa and played his first ODI against West Indies in 2006. He has more than 7000 runs in Test cricket with 19 centuries to his name. He even has 21 ODI centuries to his name that is the most by any New Zealand’s batsman.

New Zealand coach Gary Stead said Taylor is unquestionably one of the country's greatest players.

“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,” Stead said. “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.”

Williamson also praised the achievements of his long-time batting partner.

"Ross has been at the core of the side for so long and can be extremely proud of having brought the game in this country to a better place,” Williamson said. “He’s a world-class player, best with the bat over such a long period and personally it’s been a pleasure to be involved in so many partnerships with him across the formats.

“We’ve shared some pretty cool moments — most recently the World Test Championship final which was special.”

New Zealand beat India by eight wickets in the test championship final in June.