Former New Zealand captain Ross Taylor confirmed his return to competitive cricket. The 41‑year‑old will play for Samoa in the Asia-East Asia-Pacific T20 World Cup Qualifier in Oman next month.
Taylor retired in April 2022 after scoring over 18,000 runs in 450 matches for New Zealand. He shared his comeback news with fans on social media.
“It’s official—I’m proud to pull on the blue for Samoa,” Taylor wrote. “This is more than cricket. It’s an honour to represent my heritage, culture, and family.”
Taylor qualifies through his mother’s Samoan heritage and the required three-year stand-down period. He will be part of a 15-man squad led by Caleb Jasmat. Auckland all-rounder Sean Solia is also included.
Taylor admitted he thought his playing days were over. “I planned to give back through coaching,” he told New Zealand Cricket. “But this chance to play for Samoa, my mother’s homeland, is amazing.”
Read: South Africa Cricket Team to Tour Pakistan in October 2025
The qualifier will feature nine teams competing for only three spots at the 2026 T20 World Cup in India and Sri Lanka. Taylor’s return gives Samoa a major boost. His international experience could lift the team’s performance and inspire the next generation of Pacific cricketers.
