Why Did NZ Great Ross Taylor Come Out of Retirement to Play for Samoa?
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Synopsis
In an exciting twist for cricket fans, former New Zealand star Ross Taylor returns to the sport to represent Samoa at the Asia-East Asia-Pacific T20 World Cup 2026 Qualifier. His commitment to his heritage and the sport adds a profound layer to this remarkable journey.
Key Takeaways
- Ross Taylor returns to cricket to represent Samoa.
- Samoa aims for its first qualification in a men's global event.
- The T20 World Cup 2026 Qualifier starts on October 8.
- Ross will be known as Leaupepe Luteru Taylor.
- Taylor is a seasoned player with extensive international experience.
New Delhi, Sep 5 (NationPress) The iconic former New Zealand cricketer and ICC World Test Championship victor, Ross Taylor, has decided to come out of retirement to play for Samoa in the forthcoming Asia-East Asia-Pacific T20 World Cup 2026 Qualifier in Oman. This move aims to assist the nation in achieving its first-ever qualification for a men's global event.
Taylor has been named in the Samoa squad announced on Friday, marking a significant milestone in Samoa's journey towards the ICC Men's T20 World Cup 2026. The qualifier is set to kick off on October 8.
"I am thrilled to share that I will be donning the blue and representing Samoa in cricket. This is not just a return to my beloved sport; it's a profound honor to represent my heritage, culture, villages, and family," Taylor expressed on Instagram.
Holding a Samoan passport through his mother's lineage, Taylor becomes eligible for a second national team after completing the three-year period following his last match for New Zealand in April 2022.
During his tenure with the island nation, he will be known as Leaupepe Luteru Taylor, which reflects his Samoan chief title and first name.
Since his international debut in 2006, Taylor has been a pivotal figure in New Zealand cricket. He retired from international play in 2022, having represented the Black Caps more than any other player—112 Tests, 236 ODIs, and 102 T20Is.
He ranks second only to Kane Williamson on New Zealand’s all-time Test run-scorers list with 7,683 runs, as well as second with 19 Test centuries.
The right-handed batsman has also participated in seven IPL seasons and five CPL seasons, amassing nearly 5,000 runs globally.
Taylor joins the Samoan team as they aim for qualification in the Men’s T20 World Cup, having stunned the competition in Sub-Regional qualifying by defeating teams like Vanuatu, Cook Islands, and Fiji to secure their place at the new hybrid Asia/East Asia-Pacific Qualifier.
The Asia-Pacific Regional Final qualification tournament is set to commence on October 8.
In this nine-team tournament, Samoa will compete alongside Papua New Guinea and Japan as East Asia-Pacific representatives, vying for three spots at the T20 World Cup against teams including Oman, Nepal, Kuwait, Malaysia, Qatar, and UAE.
Samoa T20 Squad: Caleb Jasmat (c), Ross Taylor, Darius Visser, Sean Solia, Daniel Burgess, Douglas Finau, Sam French, Kurtis Hynam-Nyberg, Ben Mailata, Noah Mead, Solomon Nash, Samson Sola, Fereti Sululoto, Saumani Tiai, Ili Tugaga.
Point of View
It's vital to recognize the significance of Ross Taylor's return to cricket, not only for his career but also for Samoa’s aspirations on a global stage. His involvement symbolizes a bridge between cultures and the spirit of competition, enhancing the narrative of international cricket.
NationPress
05/09/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What motivated Ross Taylor to come out of retirement?
Ross Taylor aims to represent his heritage and assist Samoa in qualifying for their first men's global cricket event.
When does the Asia-East Asia-Pacific T20 World Cup 2026 Qualifier start?
The tournament is set to begin on October 8, 2023.
What title will Ross Taylor use while playing for Samoa?
He will be referred to as Leaupepe Luteru Taylor, reflecting his Samoan chief title.
How many matches has Ross Taylor played for New Zealand?
Taylor has represented New Zealand in 112 Tests, 236 ODIs, and 102 T20Is.
Who are the other teams participating in the qualifier?
Other teams include Papua New Guinea, Japan, Oman, Nepal, Kuwait, Malaysia, Qatar, and UAE.
