Tom Latham will assume the position of New Zealand Test captain full-time after Tim Southee’s resignation.

Next Friday, Latham—who has led the Test team to victory nine times as captain—will go to India with a 15-man team that includes Southee.

Since making his debut for the Black Caps in 2008, Southee has participated in 102 Test matches and taken 382 wickets, second only to Sir Richard Hadlee.

Since replacing Kane Williamson as captain in December 2022, the 35-year-old has led the team in 14 Test matches (6 wins, 6 defeats, and 2 draws). He said that his decision to retire was done with the team’s best interests in mind.

“It has been an absolute honor and a privilege to captain the Black Caps in a format that’s so special to me,” he said.

“Throughout my career, I have always attempted to prioritize the needs of the team, and I think that this choice is best for the club.

“I think that concentrating on my on-field performances and returning to my best, in order to keep taking wickets and aiding New Zealand in winning Test matches, is the best way I can serve the team going forward.”

“As I always have, I will stand behind my colleagues, particularly the talented young bowlers who are making their mark on the world scene.

“As he has done for me over the years, I wish Tom all the best in the role and he knows I’ll be there to support him on his journey.”

Southee’s contribution to the Test squad was recognized by coach Gary Stead.

He remarked, “The players and support staff hold Tim in high regard as a fantastic player and very good leader.”

Over the course of his almost 17 years as an international player, he has been a remarkable servant to New Zealand Cricket, and I would want to appreciate his humility in resigning as Test captain.

Giving up something you love is never easy, but Tim is a real team player and made the choice with the good of the team in mind.

“He’s one of our best players ever, and we still see him being a key member of our Test team going forward.”

CEO of NZC Scott Weenink praised Southee for his altruism in prioritizing the team.

The fact that he still prioritizes the needs of the team above his own and seeks to do what’s best for everyone else in spite of his evident personal disappointment speaks volumes about the guy.

“That, in my opinion, is the mark of a true leader in every meaning of the word.”

Whether he was captain or not, Southee’s statesmanship would continue, according to Weenink.

“Within this group, Tim will still play a significant leadership role.

“He will look back on his time as the Black Caps captain with pride; it’s a great honor.” Along with that, he has been instrumental in bringing in some promising young talent in the seam bowling area, including Will O’Rourke and Ben Sears.

“The Black Caps continue to have exciting seam bowling depth with the three of them plus Matt Henry and Kyle Jamieson.”