Recent from talks
Nothing was collected or created yet.
Ross Taylor
View on Wikipedia
Luteru Ross Poutoa Lote Taylor CNZM (born 8 March 1984) is a New Zealand former international cricketer who served as the captain of the New Zealand national team. Batting predominantly at number four, when he announced his retirement from international cricket at the end of 2021 he was the leading run-scorer for New Zealand in Test and One Day International cricket.[4][5] Taylor was a key member of the New Zealand team that won the 2019–2021 ICC World Test Championship, where he scored the winning boundary in the final. He was also a part of the New Zealand squads to finish as runners-up in two Cricket World Cup finals in 2015 and 2019.
Key Information
In February 2020, Taylor played his 100th Test match for New Zealand,[6] becoming the first cricketer to play in 100 matches in all three formats of international cricket.[4] In December 2020, in the first Test against Pakistan, Taylor became the most-capped player for New Zealand in international cricket, playing in his 438th match across all three formats, surpassing Daniel Vettori;[7] in December 2021, he announced that he would retire from international cricket after the one-day series against Australia and the Netherlands in early 2022.[8][9] On 4 April 2022, Taylor played in his 450th and final international match for New Zealand, his last match being an ODI against the Netherlands.[10][11]
In 2025, Taylor, whose mother is Samoan, announced that he was coming out of retirement to represent the Samoa national cricket team in its attempt to qualify for the 2026 T20 World Cup. He made his Twenty20 International debut for Samoa on 8 October.
Personal life
[edit]Taylor was born on 8 March 1984 in Lower Hutt, New Zealand.[12] He is the son of Neil Taylor and Naoupu Lote-Taylor. His father is originally from Masterton and his mother is a Samoan from Saluafata on the island of Upolu. He carries the hereditary Samoan language title of leaupepe from the village of Fasito'o Uta.[13]
Taylor was introduced to cricket by his father, but also grew up playing kilikiti, the traditional Samoan variant of cricket.[13] He was educated at Wairarapa College and Palmerston North Boys High School[14] and was a hockey player before shifting his focus to cricket.[15] Taylor married Victoria in 2011. They have three children.[16]
Domestic and T20 franchise career
[edit]
Taylor played domestically for Central Districts. He played under-17 and under-19 cricket for the side and Hawke Cup cricket for Manawatu, before making his senior debut in January 2003 in a State Shield one-day match against Canterbury. He made his first-class cricket debut against the same side later in the same month and placed his first Twenty20 cricket match in January 2006 in the inaugural New Zealand Twenty20 Competition.[12][17] In the 2009–10 HRV Cup Final against Auckland, Taylor scored a match-winning 80 runs off 30 balls; he added 133 runs from 53 balls in a partnership with Kieran Noema-Barnett and hit Michael Bates for 27 runs in one over, including three consecutive sixes. In total Taylor hit eight sixes and five fours.[18] In February 2021, during the 2020–21 Ford Trophy, Taylor played in his 300th List A match.[19]
Taylor played club cricket in England during his early career. He played matches for MCC Young Cricketers between 2002 and 2004, including in the Second Eleven Trophy,[17] and played club cricket for Norwich Wanderers in the Norfolk Cricket League in 2004.[20][21][22] In 2009/10 he played for Vctoria in the Australian Big Bash competition[23] before playing English county cricket for Durham in the 2010 Friends Provident T20 tournament, his most substantial contribution being 80 not out from only 33 balls, including three fours and nine sixes. In 2016 and 2017, he played for Sussex[24] and for Nottinghamshire in 2018.[25] He joined Middlesex for the 2019 Royal London One-day Cup competition.[26]
Taylor was signed by Royal Challengers Bangalore for the 2008 Indian Premier League before moving to Rajasthan Royals in the 2011 league auction[27] and in 2012 joined Delhi Daredevils for a season[28] before being traded to Pune Warriors India for Ashish Nehra ahead of the 2013 season.[29] He returned to play for Delhi in the 2014 season.[17]
He played for Trinidad and Tobago Red Steel in the 2013 and 2014 editions of the Caribbean Premier League and for St Lucia Zouks in 2015.[17] He returned to the league for the 2018 competition, playing for Jamaica Tallawahs[30] before appearing for Guyana Amazon Warriors in the 2020 Caribbean Premier League.[31][32]
International career
[edit]Taylor first played for the New Zealand under-19 side in January 2001. He played under-19 Test and One Day International matches and captained the side. He was a member of the New Zealand Cricket Academy and played for the New Zealand A side in 2003/04 and 2004/05.[17]
International debut
[edit]Taylor made his full international debut for New Zealand on 1 March 2006, in a one-day match against the West Indies. He became the second male player of Samoan heritage to play for New Zealand after Murphy Su'a. He scored only 15 runs in the match.[33]
Taylor is a clean striker of the ball, particularly any ball through leg side, and a useful off-break bowler. Taylor scored his maiden one day century in front of a delighted crowd in Napier, playing against Sri Lanka on 28 December 2006. The innings included 12 fours and 6 sixes. Unluckily for him, New Zealand were comprehensively beaten in that game, by a blistering knock by Sanath Jayasuriya. He also suffered dehydration and required a short hospital trip during the second innings.[34] Taylor hit 84 against Australia in their opening game in the 2006–07 Commonwealth Bank Series, but lost the match at the end.[35] He also established one of the most potent no.3-no.4 top order partnership with Kane Williamson since the latter made his debut.[36]
Taylor scored his second century in his ODI career on 18 February 2007 against Australia. He scored 117, the 2nd highest score by a New Zealander against Australia at that time.[37] He scored his maiden Test century in March 2008 at Hamilton in the first Test of the 2007–08 series against England and went on to be the leading run scorer for the series.[38]
Taylor scored what was then a Test match career-best of 154* against England at Old Trafford in May 2008, a brilliant innings including 5 sixes and 17 fours.[39] His third Test century, an innings of 151 runs off 204 balls, came against India at Napier in March 2009.[40] His fourth Test century, in the next Test, was a 107 which delayed India's victory long enough to force a draw.[41]
Captaincy
[edit]Taylor captained New Zealand for the first time in an ODI against Australia in Napier on 3 March 2010, when Daniel Vettori dropped out of the side less than 30 minutes before the start with a neck ache.[42] Taylor top-scored with 70 and New Zealand won by two wickets with four balls to spare. Taylor was also awarded the Man of the Match and donated the $NZ 500 prize to the Lansdowne Cricket Club in Masterton.
Taylor has served as the national captain for all formats.[43]
2011 World Cup
[edit]He made his then highest ODI score of 131* which came off 124 balls against Pakistan on 8 March 2011 at the ICC Cricket World Cup. His innings included seven sixes and eight fours and contributed to New Zealand making 127 runs in the final 9 overs of the game to reach the score of 301.[44] With this century, Taylor became only the fourth batsman in history of the game that scored an ODI century in a birthday,[45] after Vinod Kambli, Sachin Tendulkar, and Sanath Jayasuriya.[46][47]
Late captaincy
[edit]In a match against Australia at Hamilton in March 2010, Taylor made the fastest Test century ever by a New Zealander, bringing up his hundred off only 81 balls.[48] Taylor scored centuries in all three tests in the 2013/14 series against the West Indies. In the first Test, Taylor made his first Test match double-century and highest test score of unbeaten 217 in a composed and classy innings.[49] Taylor's 12th ODI century against Pakistan at Dubai coincides with the 100th century for the Black Caps.[50]
For his performances in the 2012–13 and 2013–14 seasons, he won the Sir Richard Hadlee Medal.[51]
Australia 2015
[edit]The best Test innings of his life came during the second test of Trans-Tasman Trophy in 2015–16 season in Australia. He scored his second double hundred and became the highest score by a New Zealand batsman in away Tests and in Australian soil as well. With this feat, he also became the first Kiwi batsman to score a Test double-hundred against Australia and the 2nd fastest among his countrymen to reach 5,000 Test career runs (in 120 innings).[52] During the inning, his partnership with Kane Williamson of 265-run for the third wicket, which was New Zealand's highest of all time against Australia for any wicket.[53] Taylor was dismissed for 290 runs with 43 fours.
In December 2016, after the Test against Pakistan at Hamilton, Taylor underwent surgery to remove a pterygium on his left eye. He was out of action for several weeks, thus missing the Chappell-Hadlee Trophy series in Australia.[54]
South Africa 2017
[edit]Taylor scored his 17th ODI century during the second ODI against South Africa at Hagley Oval. With this, he became the highest ODI century maker for New Zealand, beating 16 ODI centuries by Nathan Astle. In this match, Taylor also became New Zealand's quickest batsman to reach 6000 runs in ODI as well.[55] New Zealand finally won the match by 6 runs.[56] Ross Taylor also became only the sixth player in ODI history to score centuries against all test playing nations and first from New Zealand.[57]
England 2018
[edit]Taylor scored a century in first ODI against England in a man of the match performance for his team and became the third New Zealander to score 7000 ODI runs. In the 4th ODI, he probably played the best innings of his career as he made an unbeaten 181 off 147 balls in a successful run chase of 336 runs. His 181* is the 2nd highest ODI score for a no.4 batsman as well 4th highest score for an individual while chasing. In that match, he also passed Nathan Astle to become New Zealand's second top scorer in ODIs. Although, New Zealand lost the series, he was the top run getter with 304 runs in that 5-match series.[58]
2019
[edit]On 28 January 2019, Taylor became the third New Zealand batsman to complete 1000 runs in ODIs against India, he achieved this feat when he was batting on 14* and went on to score 93 (106).[59]

In April 2019, he was named in New Zealand's squad for the 2019 Cricket World Cup.[60][61] On 5 June 2019, in New Zealand's match against Bangladesh, Taylor played in his 400th international match for New Zealand in which he scored a match-winning 82.[62] He also became the 2nd batsman to score 8000 ODI runs for New Zealand, after Stephen Fleming, as well as outscoring him in the same match to become New Zealand's top scorer in ODIs.[63] He followed it with 48 off 52 against Afghanistan in another successful run-chase.[64]
In the game against West Indies, he provided stability scoring 69 after his team had lost both of the openers in the first over itself. He scored runs of 30 and 28 in losses against Australia and England, respectively. In the tournament's first semi-final, he top scored for New Zealand with 74 runs as they reached the World Cup final for second consecutive time. He could only make 15 runs, before being wrongly given LBW off Mark Wood's bowling, in the final as New Zealand lost it on boundary count.[65]
2020 home summer and retirement
[edit]During India's tour of New Zealand he scored 2 half-centuries in T20I series, in the 1st T20I he scored 54 off 27[66] and in 5th T20I he scored 53 off 47.[67] During the same tour he also scored a century and half-century in the ODI series, in the 1st ODI he scored 109* off 84 and awarded Man of the Match[68] and in 2nd ODI he scored 73* off 74[69] for his performance he was awarded Man of the Series.[70]
On 21 February 2020, Taylor became the first player ever to play 100 matches in each format of the game T20I, ODI and Tests during the first Test match against India, and became the fourth New Zealand player to play 100 Test matches after Stephen Fleming, Daniel Vettori and Brendon McCullum and 66th overall.[71]
In his 100th Test, Taylor scored 44 off 71 in the first innings and did not bat in the second innings.[72] New Zealand won the match by 10 wickets which marked 100 Test victories for them.[73]
On 30 December 2021, Taylor announced his retirement from international cricket at the end of the 2021/22 summer, with his final Test series being against Bangladesh, and last ODIs against the Netherlands and Australia.[74]
In the 2022 Queen's Birthday and Platinum Jubilee Honours, Taylor was appointed a Companion of the New Zealand Order of Merit, for services to cricket and Pacific communities.[75]
Playing for Samoa
[edit]In April 2025, Taylor became eligible to represent Samoa due to his mother's heritage.[76] He opted to come out retirement to play for the Samoa national cricket team and in September was named in the Samoan squad for the 2025 Men's T20 World Cup Asia–EAP Regional Final.[77][78]
International centuries
[edit]Taylor has scored 40 centuries in international cricket, 19 in Tests and 21 in ODIs.[79]
Autobiography
[edit]In his autobiography published in 2022, titled Ross Taylor: Black & White, he revealed that he faced racism within New Zealand Cricket, as some players and officials made comments about his ethnicity.[80] Belonging to Samoan heritage, Taylor stated that he experienced racism during his international career with the New Zealand Cricket Team.[81] He also mentioned being slapped by an owner of the Rajasthan Royals for getting dismissed for a duck during the 2011 Indian Premier League.[82][83]
References
[edit]- ^ "Danny Morrison(@SteelyDan66)-Nice one @RossLTaylor....top of the pile matey 👊🏻😎 Congrats Rosco 👏🕺 @BLACKCAPS #pleasekickonawhileyet #AUSvNZ #SCG". Twitter. 6 January 2020. Retrieved 30 December 2021.
- ^ "Shane Bond lauds Ross Taylor ahead of 100th Test and backs New Zealand to beat India". sportingnews.com. 20 February 2020. Retrieved 30 December 2021.
- ^ Ross taylor, Cricket Australia. Retrieved 12 January 2022.
- ^ a b Records and tributes aplenty as Ross Taylor calls time on international career, International Cricket Council, 31 December 2021. Retrieved 12 January 2022.
- ^ "Ross Taylor passes Stephen Fleming's test runs record". Stuff. 6 January 2020. Retrieved 22 February 2020.
- ^ "New Zealand vs India: Ross Taylor and kids mark his 100th to standing ovation". Stuff. 21 February 2020. Retrieved 22 February 2020.
- ^ "Black Caps vs Pakistan: Ross Taylor and Tim Southee nearing big milestones". Stuff. 24 December 2020. Retrieved 25 December 2020.
- ^ "Ross Taylor to retire from international cricket". Cricbuzz. 30 December 2021. Retrieved 30 December 2021.
- ^ "Ross Taylor announces international retirement". ESPNcricinfo. 30 December 2021. Retrieved 30 December 2021.
- ^ "Tears fall from Ross Taylor in final game for New Zealand in Hamilton". Stuff. 4 April 2022. Retrieved 4 April 2022.
- ^ "A career to remember: Reliving Ross Taylor's top moments in New Zealand colours". International Cricket Council. Retrieved 4 April 2022.
- ^ a b Ross Taylor, ESPNcricinfo. Retrieved 12 January 2022.
- ^ a b "Cricket and Kilikiti, Ross Taylor talks about finding the best of both worlds". Radio New Zealand. 16 March 2022. Retrieved 22 February 2023.
- ^ June newsletter – 16 Black Caps from PNBHS. Palmerston North Boys' High School (9 August 2015). Retrieved on 27 May 2018.
- ^ Smart, Steven (3 May 2008). "Tonker Taylor breaks through as Kiwis' shining light after old stars fade away". The Guardian. Retrieved 4 May 2008.
- ^ "What a difference a year makes for Ross Taylor". Fairfax New Zealand Limited. 28 December 2013. Retrieved 29 December 2013.
- ^ a b c d e Ross Taylor, CricketArchive. Retrieved 12 January 2022. (subscription required)
- ^ "Central Districts vs Auckland, Final, New Plymouth, January 31, 2010". ESPNcricinfo. Retrieved 15 July 2024.
- ^ "Ford Trophy: Auckland debutant Cole Briggs' stunning start continues in another runfest". Stuff. 21 February 2021. Retrieved 21 February 2021.
- ^ "NZ star Taylor recalls Norfolk days". BBC. 21 May 2015. Retrieved 22 February 2020.
- ^ Lindsa, Milton (6 July 2011) Wanderers’ title hopes face key examination, Norwich Evening News. Retrieved 12 January 2022.
- ^ Thorpe, David (12 July 2013) New Zealand Test star Taylor turns out to help Ashmanhaugh, Eastern Daily Press. Retrieved 12 January 2022.
- ^ "Victoria Bushrangers have roped in New Zealand's Ross Taylor as a last-minute replacement for Sohail Tanvir to play in the domestic T20 Big Bash". NDTV. 26 December 2009. Retrieved 23 February 2020.
- ^ "Ross Taylor: Sussex sign New Zealand batsman for 2016". BBC. 18 December 2015. Retrieved 22 February 2020.
- ^ "Ross Taylor: Nottinghamshire sign New Zealand batsman for first half of season". BBC. 8 March 2018. Retrieved 22 February 2020.
- ^ "Ross Taylor Signs For Middlesex for Royal Londoan One-Day Cup Campaign". Middlesex County Cricket Club. Retrieved 22 February 2020.
- ^ "A list of players sold on Day 1 of the IPL 4 auction". India Today. 9 January 2011. Retrieved 22 February 2020.
- ^ "Delhi Daredevils acquire NZ skipper Ross Taylor from Rajasthan". Rediff.com. 29 February 2012. Retrieved 22 February 2020.
- ^ "Delhi Daredevils trade Ross Taylor for Ashish Nehra with Pune Warriors India". NDTV. 13 February 2013. Retrieved 22 February 2020.
- ^ "Jamaica Tallawahs Squad - Tallawahs Squad - Caribbean Premier League, 2018 Squad". ESPNcricinfo. Retrieved 2 January 2022.
- ^ "Nabi, Lamichhane, Dunk earn big in CPL 2020 draft". ESPNcricinfo. Retrieved 6 July 2020.
- ^ "Teams Selected for Hero CPL 2020". Cricket West Indies. Retrieved 6 July 2020.
- ^ "West Indies tour of New Zealand, 4th ODI: New Zealand v West Indies at Napier, Mar 1, 2006". Retrieved 1 March 2006.
- ^ "Jayasuriya sizzles in Sri Lanka's win". ESPNcricinfo. Retrieved 28 December 2006.
- ^ "Commonwealth Bank Series, 2nd Match: Australia v New Zealand at Hobart, Jan 14, 2007". ESPNcricinfo. Retrieved 14 January 2007.
- ^ "Black Caps await final one-dayer before World Cup". Newshub. Archived from the original on 6 March 2016. Retrieved 26 January 2015.
- ^ "Taylor stars as New Zealand chase down 337". ESPNcricinfo. Retrieved 18 February 2007.
- ^ "England tour of New Zealand, 1st Test: New Zealand v England at Hamilton, Mar 5–9, 2008". ESPNcricinfo. Retrieved 9 March 2008.
- ^ "New Zealand tour of England and Scotland, 2nd Test: England v New Zealand at Manchester, May 23–26, 2008". ESPNcricinfo. Retrieved 26 May 2008.
he would later hit his new Career best of 217* in Dunedin New Zealand in 2013 against the West Indies (of all ICc full test match cricket members)
- ^ "India tour of New Zealand, 2nd Test: New Zealand v India at Napier, Mar 26–30, 2009". ESPNcricinfo. Retrieved 30 March 2009.
- ^ "India tour of New Zealand, 3rd Test: New Zealand v India at Wellington, Apr 3–7, 2009". ESPNcricinfo. Retrieved 7 April 2009.
- ^ "Ross Taylor promoted to 'stand-by' captain". ESPNcricinfo. Retrieved 29 January 2010.
- ^ Johnstone, Duncan (7 December 2012). "Black Caps | Ross Taylor sacked as Black Caps captain..." Stuff. Retrieved 22 April 2013.
- ^ Sheringham, Sam. "Cricket World Cup: Ross Taylor blitz sets up NZ victory". BBC News. Retrieved 9 March 2010.
- ^ "Birthday bullies, ODI oldies and poultry-laden Tests". ESPNcricinfo. Retrieved 6 June 2017.
- ^ "Happy birthday Rose Taylor". ESPNcricinfo. Retrieved 8 March 2011.
- ^ "BIRTHDAY BOY TAYLOR PUNISHES PAKISTAN IN 2011". ICC. Retrieved 8 March 2015.
- ^ "Ross Taylor takes the fight to Australia". The Age. 28 March 2010. Retrieved 28 March 2010.
- ^ "West Indies tour of New Zealand, 1st Test: New Zealand v West Indies at Dunedin, Dec 3–7, 2013". ESPNcricinfo. Retrieved 7 December 2013.
- ^ "New Zealand tour of United Arab Emirates, 2nd Test: New Zealand v Pakistan at Dubai (DSC), Nov 17–21, 2014". ESPNcricinfo. Retrieved 21 November 2014.
- ^ New Zealand Cricket Awards | NZ Cricket Museum
- ^ Jayaraman, Shiva (16 November 2015). "Taylor breaks 111-year-old record". ESPNcricinfo. Retrieved 16 November 2015.
- ^ "Taylor's double-ton turns tables on Australia". ESPNcricinfo. 15 November 2015. Retrieved 15 November 2015.
- ^ "Taylor cleared for Hamilton Test, but needs surgery on eye". ESPNcricinfo. 23 November 2016.
- ^ "Taylor's record century takes New Zealand to 289". ESPNcricinfo. Retrieved 22 February 2017.
- ^ "South Africa tour of New Zealand, 2nd ODI: New Zealand v South Africa at Christchurch, Feb 22, 2017". ESPNcricinfo. Retrieved 22 February 2017.
- ^ "Taylor joins exclusive club". cricket.com.au. Retrieved 24 March 2017.
- ^ "Today's Cricket Match | Cricket Update | Cricket News". ESPNcricinfo. Retrieved 11 June 2024.
- ^ "India vs New Zealand 2019: Ross Taylor completes major ODI landmark against India". Hindustan Times. 28 January 2019. Retrieved 22 February 2020.
- ^ "2019 Cricket World Cup: New Zealand Name 15-Man Squad". Outlook India. 3 April 2019. Retrieved 22 February 2020.
- ^ "New Zealand Name World Cup 2019 Squad, Ross Taylor To Appear Fourth Time". Mid Day. 3 April 2019. Retrieved 22 February 2020.
- ^ "Ross Taylor celebrated his 400th international appearance with a match-winning 82 against Bangladesh on Wednesday". Rediff.com. 6 June 2019. Retrieved 22 February 2020.
- ^ "Ross Taylor becomes leading run scorer for Kiwis in ODIs". Business Standard. 20 February 2019. Retrieved 22 February 2020.
- ^ "Kiwis demolish Afghanistan". Deccan Herald. 9 June 2019. Retrieved 22 February 2020.
- ^ "Cricket World Cup 2019: Key moments in the dramatic Black Caps v England decider". Stuff. 15 July 2019. Retrieved 22 February 2020.
- ^ "India tour of New Zealand 2019–20 1st T20I". ESPNcricinfo. 24 January 2020. Retrieved 22 February 2020.
- ^ "India tour of New Zealand 2019–20 5th T20I". ESPNcricinfo. 2 February 2020. Retrieved 22 February 2020.
- ^ "India tour of New Zealand 2019–20 1st ODI". ESPNcricinfo. 5 February 2020. Retrieved 22 February 2020.
- ^ "India tour of New Zealand 2019–20 2nd ODI". ESPNcricinfo. 8 February 2020. Retrieved 22 February 2020.
- ^ "New Zealand vs India, 3rd ODI". CricBuzz. 11 February 2020. Retrieved 22 February 2020.
- ^ "Ross Taylor 1st cricketer to play 100 international matches in all 3 formats". India Today. 21 February 2020. Retrieved 22 February 2020.
- ^ "1st Test, ICC World Test Championship at Wellington". ESPNcricinfo. Retrieved 24 February 2020.
- ^ "Black Caps claim 100th test victory with famous win over India". The New Zealand Herald. 24 February 2020. Retrieved 24 February 2020.
- ^ "Cricket: Black Caps legend Ross Taylor announces retirement from international cricket". RNZ. 30 December 2021. Retrieved 30 December 2021.
- ^ "The Queen's Birthday and Platinum Jubilee Honours List 2022". The New Zealand Herald. 6 June 2022. Retrieved 6 June 2022.
- ^ "Ross Taylor comes out of retirement to play for Samoa". Cricbuzz. Retrieved 5 September 2025.
- ^ "New Zealand cricket great Ross Taylor to come out of retirement to play for Samoa". Sportstar. 5 September 2025. Retrieved 5 September 2025.
- ^ "Ross Taylor comes out of retirement to play for Samoa at T20 World Cup regional qualifiers". ESPNcricinfo. 5 September 2025. Retrieved 5 September 2025.
- ^ "Ross Taylor profile and biography, stats, records, averages, photos and videos". ESPNcricinfo. Retrieved 30 March 2022.
- ^ "Ross Taylor reveals racial insensitivity in New Zealand cricket". ESPNcricinfo. Retrieved 14 August 2022.
- ^ AP (11 August 2022). "Ross Taylor makes racism claim in new book titled 'Black and White' questioning New Zealand's cricket culture". sportstar.thehindu.com. Retrieved 14 August 2022.
- ^ "Ross Taylor: A Rajasthan Royals owner 'slapped' me". ESPNcricinfo. Retrieved 14 August 2022.
- ^ "RR owner said, 'Ross, we didn't pay you million dollars to get a duck' and slapped me': Taylor makes stunning claim". Hindustan Times. 13 August 2022. Retrieved 14 August 2022.
External links
[edit]Ross Taylor
View on GrokipediaEarly life and personal background
Family heritage and upbringing
Luteru Ross Poutoa Lote Taylor was born on 8 March 1984 in Lower Hutt, Wellington, New Zealand.[1] His father, Neil Taylor, originated from Masterton in New Zealand's North Island, while his mother, Naoupu Lote-Taylor, was born in Samoa from the village of Saoluafata on Upolu island, conferring upon Taylor partial Samoan (Pasifika) heritage alongside his New Zealand roots.[7][8] This dual cultural background, with maternal ties also to Fasito'o-Uta in Samoa, informed Taylor's sense of identity, later enabling his eligibility to represent Samoa internationally after a mandatory stand-down period from New Zealand cricket.[9][10] Taylor was raised in a working-class family in the Hutt Valley region, with family connections extending to Masterton, where his father's side was based.[11][12] His upbringing emphasized practical self-reliance amid modest circumstances, blending everyday New Zealand life with elements of Samoan traditions, including exposure to kilikiti, the local variant of cricket played in Pacific communities.[13] This cultural duality, without undue emphasis on adversity, fostered a grounded perspective that shaped his early personal circumstances prior to deeper involvement in organized sports.[7]Education and formative influences
Taylor attended Wairarapa College in Masterton for his initial secondary education, where he began developing his cricketing skills alongside other sports.[12] After three years there, he transferred to Palmerston North Boys' High School in 2000 for his sixth-form year, a move facilitated by the Central Districts Cricket Association to access superior coaching and facilities at the cricketing-focused boarding school.[14] [12] This transition, supported by local businesses, accelerated his growth, as the school's environment demanded independence and routine, fostering resilience through adaptation to boarding life away from home.[15] Initially involved in multiple sports, Taylor participated in hockey, which influenced elements of his batting technique, such as aggressive swats reminiscent of stick handling.[12] He shifted primary focus to cricket during his mid-teens, excelling at under-15 level with back-to-back centuries at a national tournament in Wellington, signaling his potential beyond multi-sport versatility.[15] This specialization built physical and mental toughness, as consistent winter training sessions honed his natural strokeplay without over-reliance on coaching drills. Key formative mentors in his junior years included Dermot Payton, his Wairarapa-based coach, who prioritized discipline and impeccable shot selection over raw talent, noting Taylor's unwavering attendance: "He never missed a session. Ever."[12] At Palmerston North Boys' High, Paul Gibbs served as school coach, contributing to team successes like reaching the national Gillette Cup semifinals in Taylor's final year.[12] These influences emphasized self-reliance and consistent effort, shaping a grounded approach that contrasted with more naturally gifted peers, and helped Taylor develop resilience amid the rigors of boarding school and early competitive pressures.[15]Domestic and franchise career
Provincial cricket in New Zealand
Ross Taylor made his senior debut for Central Districts in the 2003–04 domestic season, initially featuring in one-day matches before progressing to first-class fixtures in the Plunket Shield.[16] His early appearances demonstrated promise as a middle-order batsman, with consistent performances in both formats helping to establish him within the provincial setup amid New Zealand's seaming conditions that demand technical resilience and patience.[1] In the 2005–06 season, Taylor experienced a breakout period, scoring three centuries across domestic competitions, which highlighted his growing maturity and ability to anchor innings on variable pitches typical of provincial cricket.[17] This run-scoring spree, including substantial contributions in the Plunket Shield, underscored his adaptation to longer formats by building innings methodically against swing and seam movement, averaging over 50 in List A games for Central Districts during this phase.[18] Over subsequent seasons, Taylor maintained reliability for Central Districts, compiling strong aggregates in the Plunket Shield with multiple half-centuries and aiding team efforts in challenging conditions that test stamina and shot selection.[19] His progression reflected a focus on endurance for multi-day matches, where he honed defensive techniques against domestic pacers, contributing to Central Districts' competitive standing without relying on aggressive strokeplay alone.[20]T20 leagues and international franchises
Taylor began his Indian Premier League (IPL) career with the Royal Challengers Bangalore in 2008, playing three seasons there before transferring to the Rajasthan Royals ahead of the 2011 edition.[21] In the 2011 IPL auction on January 8, he became the first New Zealand cricketer to secure a seven-figure contract, fetched by Rajasthan Royals for US$1 million after a competitive bidding process lasting four minutes.[22] During that season, Taylor alleged in his 2022 autobiography Black & White that after being dismissed for a duck against Kings XI Punjab, one of the franchise's owners slapped him across the face three to four times in the team dugout, citing poor performance as the trigger; the claim, which Taylor described as stemming from intense pressure in a high-stakes commercial environment, has not been independently corroborated but highlights reported tensions in early IPL franchise dynamics.[23][24] Taylor continued in the IPL with Pune Warriors India in 2012 and 2013, followed by a stint with Delhi Daredevils in 2014, amassing a total career earnings of approximately ₹183 million across these franchises, which significantly boosted his financial security and enabled personal investments like real estate.[25] These engagements refined his T20 batting, emphasizing power-hitting through trademark pulls and slog-sweeps suited to aggressive, boundary-focused formats, though his IPL strike rate hovered around 120, reflecting adaptation to shorter overs rather than explosive consistency.[1] Beyond the IPL, Taylor participated in the Caribbean Premier League (CPL) across five seasons with four teams, including St Lucia Zouks and Barbados Royals, where he contributed in middle-order roles, leveraging refined power play to target boundaries in humid, spin-friendly conditions.[1] He entered the Big Bash League draft in 2022 as a retired international but did not secure a marquee contract for play, limiting his involvement there.[26] Overall, these leagues elevated Taylor's global visibility, exposing his versatile strokeplay to diverse audiences and pitches, while underscoring the commercial allure of T20 cricket that drew top international talent despite variable personal outcomes.[27]International career
Debuts and early international breakthroughs
Taylor made his One Day International (ODI) debut for New Zealand against the West Indies on 1 March 2006 at McLean Park in Napier, scoring 1 run in a match New Zealand lost by 7 wickets.[1] In his next two ODIs later that month against the same opponents, he accumulated modest scores of 0 and 14, reflecting initial adjustment challenges in the limited-overs format.[1] A breakthrough arrived in December 2006 during New Zealand's home series against Sri Lanka, where Taylor, batting at number 4, scored an unbeaten 128 off 119 balls in his third ODI overall at Napier—his maiden international century, featuring 12 fours and 4 sixes, though New Zealand fell short by 47 runs.[1] This innings, combined with consistent middle-order contributions in subsequent matches, such as 84 off 81 balls against West Indies in early 2007, solidified his role as a reliable accumulator capable of building partnerships, averaging over 40 in ODIs by mid-2007.[1] Taylor's Test debut occurred against South Africa on 8 November 2007 at the Wanderers Stadium in Johannesburg, where he scored 30 and 9 across two innings amid struggles against seam movement and bounce on lively pitches.[1] In the second Test of that series at SuperSport Park, Centurion, from 16 December 2007, further low scores of 0 and 8 highlighted adaptation issues to subcontinental conditions, contributing to New Zealand's 0-2 series defeat.[1] Returning home for the 2007-08 series against England, Taylor registered his first Test century—144 off 241 balls—in the first match at Seddon Park, Hamilton, from 22 March 2008, helping New Zealand secure a 121-run victory and anchoring the middle order with key partnerships exceeding 100 runs alongside Brendon McCullum.[1] He followed with 154 not out, including 17 fours and 5 sixes, in the return fixture at Old Trafford in May 2008, underscoring his growing proficiency in longer formats and establishing him as a mainstay at number 5.[1] These performances marked his transition from debut inconsistencies to dependable run-scoring, with a Test average nearing 50 by series end.[1]Captaincy appointment and initial leadership
Taylor first took on the captaincy in an interim capacity for New Zealand's opening ODI against Australia at Napier on 3 March 2010, after regular captain Daniel Vettori withdrew due to injury.[28] New Zealand chased down a target of 276 to win by two wickets with four balls remaining, a result bolstered by Taylor's top score of 70 runs.[29] This match marked the beginning of his leadership exposure, during which he guided the side to six victories across 14 ODIs and T20Is as stand-in captain, demonstrating early competence in limited-overs formats.[30] On 21 June 2011, Taylor received the full captaincy appointment across all formats from New Zealand Cricket, succeeding Vettori, who had resigned following the 2011 World Cup.[31] The selection prioritized Taylor's batting consistency and prior interim successes over alternatives like Brendon McCullum, with the aim of fostering team stability amid ongoing transitions in personnel and performance.[32] As a middle-order batsman rather than a bowler like Vettori, Taylor's elevation shifted focus toward leveraging senior players' experience for balanced decision-making. Taylor's initial leadership emphasized pragmatic tactics and delegation to specialists, enabling player empowerment in specialized roles such as field settings and bowling changes.[33] This approach contrasted with Vettori's more bowler-centric oversight, promoting a collaborative environment that Taylor later credited for enhancing his own batting output during captaincy.[34] Early results reflected modest gains in cohesion, though challenges persisted against top-tier opposition, underscoring the pragmatic emphasis on incremental improvements over radical overhauls.2011 World Cup performance and outcomes
New Zealand qualified for the semi-finals of the 2011 ICC Cricket World Cup after finishing second in Group A, securing four wins from five group-stage matches. Ross Taylor, serving as vice-captain under Daniel Vettori, delivered consistent middle-order contributions, anchoring innings amid variable conditions across venues in Bangladesh, India, and Sri Lanka. His standout performance came in the group-stage clash against Pakistan on 8 March at Pallekele International Cricket Stadium, where he remained unbeaten on 131 off 124 balls—his highest score of the tournament—featuring seven sixes and a strike rate exceeding 105 in the final overs, propelling New Zealand to 302/7 and a 110-run victory.[35] [36] Vettori's injury during the tournament elevated Taylor to captaincy for the knockout phase, marking his initial leadership in high-stakes limited-overs cricket. In the quarter-final against South Africa on 25 March at Mirpur, Taylor opted to bat first on a slow pitch, scoring 3 before a run-out, as New Zealand posted 221/8 and restricted South Africa to 172 through disciplined seam bowling led by Tim Southee (3/29) and Kyle Mills (2/25), securing a 49-run upset win.[37] This tactical emphasis on containment and lower-order resilience highlighted improved team cohesion compared to prior inconsistent campaigns. The semi-final against Sri Lanka on 29 March at R. Premadasa Stadium ended New Zealand's run, with Taylor scoring 36 in a total of 217 all out; Sri Lanka chased the target in 47.2 overs for a five-wicket victory, exploiting spin-friendly conditions where Muttiah Muralitharan (3/38) dismantled the middle order.[38] Taylor concluded the tournament as New Zealand's top run-scorer with 324 runs in six innings at an average of 64.80 and strike rate of 87.10, underscoring his adaptability in stabilizing and accelerating as required.[39] The campaign's outcomes affirmed Taylor's emerging stature as a reliable performer under pressure, though exposed limitations in subcontinental spin-handling that prevented further progress.Captaincy dismissal and team transitions
In December 2012, Ross Taylor was removed as captain of the New Zealand cricket team across all formats following a decision by New Zealand Cricket (NZC) to transition leadership to Brendon McCullum.[40] The board's stated rationale centered on splitting the captaincy roles, with Taylor offered retention as Test captain while McCullum assumed ODI and T20 duties, a proposal Taylor rejected as he sought to maintain unified leadership.[41] This refusal prompted NZC to appoint McCullum as full captain on December 7, 2012, marking a abrupt shift amid the team's preparations for upcoming series.[42] Taylor later described the process as an "ambush," claiming in his 2022 autobiography and interviews that coach Mike Hesson had predetermined McCullum's elevation, undermining his position through prior consultations excluding him.[43] [44] NZC maintained the change prioritized team performance and fresh direction, citing internal assessments of leadership dynamics, though Taylor contested this as a lack of consultation and loyalty from the board.[3] McCullum denied orchestrating a coup, emphasizing no prior commitment to the role until after Taylor's removal.[45] The dismissal triggered immediate team divisions, with Taylor taking stress leave from cricket until March 2013 and several former players publicly criticizing NZC's handling as mishandled and divisive.[46] This exposed board dysfunction, as later disclosures revealed tensions between performance imperatives and player relationships, fostering mistrust that persisted into McCullum's tenure.[47] McCullum's subsequent captaincy emphasized aggressive play, aligning with NZC's results-oriented pivot, but the episode highlighted preferences for strategic renewal over incumbent stability.[48]Mid-to-late career highlights (2015-2019)
In the 2015-16 tour of Australia, Taylor delivered one of the standout performances of his career during the second Test at Perth, scoring 290 runs— the highest total by any visiting batsman on Australian soil— which included crossing the 5,000 Test runs milestone in his 120th innings, making him the second-fastest New Zealand player to achieve it behind Martin Crowe.[49][50][51] This innings, faced against a formidable Australian attack, featured 43 boundaries and lasted over nine hours, rescuing New Zealand from a precarious position and nearly steering them to a draw despite Australia's eventual victory.[52][53] During South Africa's 2016-17 tour of New Zealand, Taylor anchored the second ODI at Christchurch with an unbeaten 102—his 17th ODI century and first against South Africa—helping New Zealand post 289/4 and secure a 62-run victory to level the series, earning him Player of the Match.[54][55] His composed knock off 110 balls demonstrated resilience against South Africa's pace attack, contributing to breaking their then-unbeaten ODI streak away from home.[54] In the 2018 ODI series against England, Taylor's unbeaten 181 off 147 balls in the fourth match at Dunedin propelled New Zealand to a five-wicket chase of 336, leveling the series 2-2 and earning him the ESPNcricinfo ODI Batting Performance of the Year award for its match-winning impact under pressure.[56][57][58] This was his second century of the series, showcasing his adaptability at age 33 amid a transitioning Black Caps side, where he maintained a strong average while younger players like Kane Williamson emerged as leaders.[56] Throughout this period, Taylor's consistency proved vital during New Zealand's rebuild following Brendon McCullum's retirement, as he adapted to physical demands by refining his footwork and shot selection, sustaining batting averages above 40 in Tests and ODIs despite increased bowling quality from opponents.[1] His role stabilized the middle order, enabling contributions in high-stakes chases and partnerships that supported the team's rise to consistent top-tier contention.[36]Final international appearances and retirement (2020-2022)
In the 2020–21 home summer, Taylor played a key role in New Zealand's Test series victories against the West Indies and Pakistan. During the first Test against the West Indies at Seddon Park, Hamilton, from 3 to 7 December 2020, he contributed an unbeaten 31 alongside Kane Williamson's 97 not out by the close of day one, helping New Zealand reach 243 for 2 after being sent in to bat.[59] New Zealand won the series 2–0, with Taylor appearing in both matches. Against Pakistan, in the first Test at Bay Oval, Mount Maunganui, starting 26 December 2020, Taylor scored 70 runs from 151 balls in the first innings, partnering with Williamson for 120 runs for the third wicket after early setbacks; this performance came amid him becoming New Zealand's most-capped player, surpassing Daniel Vettori's 442 international appearances on 27 December.[60][61] New Zealand secured a 4-wicket win in that match and drew the second Test, clinching the series 1–0.[62] Taylor retired from T20I cricket in early 2021 following his final appearances in the three-match series against the West Indies in November 2020, ending with 102 caps and 1,901 runs at an average of 24.76.[63] His ODI career concluded without a formal farewell series, with his 236th and last ODI occurring prior to his retirement announcement; overall, he amassed 8,407 runs at an average of 47.35 in the format. In January 2022, Taylor announced his retirement from Tests and ODIs, paving the way for Kane Williamson to assume the primary batting anchor role amid New Zealand's transition to a younger core.[63] Taylor's Test farewell came in the second match against Bangladesh at Hagley Oval, Christchurch, from 9 to 11 January 2022—his 112th Test overall, a New Zealand record for most appearances. Batting at No. 4, he scored modestly but delivered a decisive moment by dismissing tailender Ebadot Hossain with his part-time off-spin for his sole wicket of the match, sealing an innings-and-117-run victory that leveled the series 1–1.[64][65] This capped a career of exceptional endurance, with Taylor's 450 total international matches underscoring his reliability as New Zealand's highest run-scorer across formats at the time of retirement.[63]Playing style, records, and achievements
Batting technique and adaptability
Taylor was a right-handed batsman with an orthodox technique built on a compact stance and strong defensive base, enabling him to anchor innings in Test cricket while accelerating in limited-overs formats.[66] His early style emphasized precise off-side drives and a solid forward press against pace, reflecting a classical approach honed through provincial cricket.[12] Over time, he evolved to incorporate aggressive elements, particularly his signature pull shots off short-pitched deliveries and slog-sweeps against spin, which allowed him to dominate slower bowlers by generating power from a low, hockey-influenced squat-like base.[67] These additions addressed initial criticisms of limited flair, transforming him into a more versatile middle-order enforcer capable of match-turning acceleration.[15] Adaptability across conditions marked Taylor's technical maturity, though he faced challenges on turning subcontinental pitches early in his career, where his average dipped below 30 in Tests against India and Pakistan before refining his sweep play.[66] At home in New Zealand, he thrived on seaming conditions, posting higher averages through disciplined defense and opportunistic drives, contrasting with away performances where his overall Test average fell to 38.16, skewed by strong showings in Zimbabwe but exposing vulnerabilities to variable bounce abroad.[68] His philosophy of simplicity—prioritizing survival in the opening overs before expanding—facilitated transitions between formats, with slog-sweeps proving decisive against spin-heavy attacks in ODIs and T20s.[12] Injuries, including recurring back issues from 2011 onward, forced technical adjustments, such as shortening his stance for better balance and reducing high-risk shots to preserve longevity, demonstrating resilience in comebacks like his 2015 resurgence.[15] This evolution prioritized sustainability over aesthetics, minimizing thrill-seeking tendencies for consistent output, though occasional mistimed slog-sweeps highlighted persistent risks against quality spin.[69] Overall, Taylor's adaptability stemmed from first-principles focus on grip, footwork, and situational awareness, enabling him to excel as New Zealand's premier No. 4 across a 15-year international span.[70]Career statistics and milestones
Taylor's international batting aggregates reflect his consistency across formats. In Tests, he played 112 matches, scoring 7,584 runs at an average of 43.48, with a highest score of 290 and 19 centuries.[1] In One Day Internationals (ODIs), he featured in 233 matches, aggregating 8,904 runs at 47.35, including 21 centuries and a best of 181 not out.[1] For Twenty20 Internationals (T20Is), Taylor appeared in 121 games, compiling 1,934 runs at 26.01, with a top score of 80 not out.[1]| Format | Matches | Innings | Runs | Average | Strike Rate | Centuries | Fifties | Highest Score |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Tests | 112 | 194 | 7,584 | 43.48 | 52.24 | 19 | 29 | 290 |
| ODIs | 233 | 215 | 8,904 | 47.35 | 83.13 | 21 | 51 | 181* |
| T20Is | 121 | 106 | 1,934 | 26.01 | 120.58 | 0 | 7 | 80* |
.jpg)