"I’ve always tried to put the team first" - Tim Southee steps down as New Zealand Test captain with Tom Latham set to lead in India series

In a major development ahead of New Zealand's upcoming Test series against India, Tim Southee has stepped down from his leadership role. Opening batter Tom Latham will lead the Kiwis moving forward, with the board set to announce the 15-man squad for their tour of India.

Southee had succeeded Williamson as the Test captain in December 2022, but hasn't been able to deliver the desired results. The right-arm seamer has captained the national team in 14 Tests, winning and losing six each. New Zealand are coming off a 2-0 series loss in Sri Lanka and suffered a defeat to Australia by the same scoreline earlier this year on home soil.

Southee addressed his decision to step down, claiming that it's in the best interest of the team and feels he can deliver good performances by focusing on his playing role. He also vowed to support Latham. As quoted by nzc.nz, Southee said:

"Captaining the BLACKCAPS in a format that’s so special to me, has been an absolute honour and a privilege. I’ve 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 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."

Latham, one of the most successful Test openers of this era, has captained New Zealand in nine Tests, winning four and losing the remaining five.

"Not easy giving up something you love" - New Zealand coach on Tim Southee's decision

Black Caps coach Gary Stead acknowledged Southee's humility and hailed the veteran's contribution to New Zealand cricket over the years, adding:

"Tim’s a fantastic player and a very good leader who is held in high regard by the players and support staff. He’s been a great servant of New Zealand Cricket over nearly 17 years playing on the international stage, and I’d like to acknowledge his humility in stepping down from the role as Test captain. It’s not easy giving up something you love, but Tim is a true team-man and he’s made the decision with the team’s best interests at heart."

India's Test series against the Kiwis begins on October 16 in Bengaluru.