Tom Latham to Replace Tim Southee as New Zealand Test Captain for Series Against India

India will square New Zealand in a face-off that promises intense cricket action in a much awaited three-match Test series. All matches starting at 9:30 AM; the series opens with the first test from 16th to 20th October, then the second test from 24th to 28th October, and lastly the final test set for 1st to 5th November. Well, as Rohit Sharma will lead India in the series, there is a big captaincy change for New Zealand as Tim Southee resigns from the post to focus on the playing role. 

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Tim Southee quits the New Zealand Test captaincy; Tom Latham will lead the side in India

Having guided New Zealand in 14 games and secured six wins, 35-year-old Tim Southee has resigned as test captain. Over his term as captain, his bowling performance suffered. Beginning October 16, Tom Latham will inherit leadership for a three-match Test series in India. Declaring that it was in the team's best interests, Southee decided to go soon on this decision after the Black Caps series against Sri Lanka was swept 2-0.

From 2020 to 2022 Latham led New Zealand in nine Test matches; he will now lead the side once more. Tim Southee said: 

"Captaining the BlackCaps in a format that’s so special to me, has been an absolute honour and a privilege,”

“I have always tried to put the team first throughout my career and I believe this decision is the best for the team. I believe the way I can best serve the team moving forward is focusing on my performances on the field and getting back to my best, to continue taking wickets and helping New Zealand win Test matches,"

"I will, as I have always done, continue to support my teammates, especially the exciting young bowlers making their way on the international stage. I wish Tom all the best in the role and he knows I'll be there to support him on his journey, as he has done for me over the years," 

After replacing Kane Williamson in 2022, Tim Southee, 35, has led New Zealand in 14 Test matches, with six victories, six defeats, and two ties.

During his leadership, sadly, his bowling performance fell short of expectations. Southee collected 35 wickets at an average of 38.60 during the 14 matches, far over his career average of 28.99. He battled in the last two Test series in Sri Lanka, only scoring two wickets after 49 overs of bowling.