Ross Taylor of New Zealand comes out of retirement.

A new chapter in the legendary career of former New Zealand cricket captain Ross Taylor has begun with his official retirement to play for Samoa.

The batting icon confirmed his inclusion in Samoa’s team for the Asia-East Asia-Pacific T20 World Cup 2026 qualifier, which is set to begin in Oman on October 8, by making the announcement on social media.

Samoa will be in Group C of the nine-team qualifier, which also includes hosts Oman and Papua New Guinea (PNG). In order to maintain aspirations of qualifying for the 2026 T20 World Cup, the top two teams from each group will advance to the Super Six stage.

Taylor’s heartfelt declaration
Taylor posted the following sincere statement on Instagram:

“I’m happy to declare that I will be wearing the blue and playing cricket for Samoa. It’s official.” Representing my background, culture, villages, and family is a great honor, and it goes beyond simply playing the game I love again. I can’t wait to join the team, contribute to the game, and share my experiences both on and off the field.

Taylor has a Samoan passport and is eligible to represent Samoa due to his mother’s ancestry. He can now play for a new side after completing the three-year cooling-off period imposed by the ICC. Prior to declaring his retirement, the 41-year-old last played for New Zealand in 2022.

Taylor had a great career, playing 112 Test matches, 236 ODIs, and 102 T20Is between 2006 and 2022. With 8,607 runs, he is still New Zealand’s all-time top run scorer in ODIs and is second overall, behind only Kane Williamson. Considered by many to be among the best of the Blackcaps, his comeback is anticipated to give Samoa’s roster depth and priceless experience.

Other important figures in the Samoan team

Darius Visser, who is renowned for his power hitting, including a spectacular display last year when he hammered six sixes in a 39-run over against Vanuatu, and Sean Solia, who has a wealth of domestic cricket experience with Auckland, will join Taylor. It is anticipated that the three will significantly increase Samoa’s batting order’s firepower.