New Zealand star comes out of RETIREMENT to represent THIS team… in T20 World Cup qualifier, his name is…

Ross Taylor, one of New Zealand’s greatest-ever cricketers, is set to come out of retirement to represent Samoa in the T20 World Cup qualifying tournament in Oman.

Taylor, who retired from international cricket in 2022, is New Zealand’s most-capped player across formats, having featured in 112 Tests, 236 ODIs, and 102 T20Is. He sits second only to Kane Williamson on the country’s all-time Test run-scoring list and also has 19 Test centuries to his name, the second most for New Zealand.

Announcing the news on social media, Taylor confirmed that he will return to competitive cricket to play for Samoa, the nation of his heritage.

“Coming out of retirement. It’s official – I’m proud to announce that I’ll be pulling on the blue and representing Samoa in cricket. This is more than just a return to the game I love — it’s the huge honour to represent my heritage, culture, villages, and family,” said Taylor on Instagram.

“I’m excited for the opportunity to give back to the game, join the squad, and share my experience on and off the field. Time to get back out there – #685 to the world! CHEEEHOOO,” he added.

Taylor’s mother, Lote, was born in Samoa, and he will represent the side under his full chiefly name, Leaupepe Luteru Ross Poutoa Lote Taylor.

Now 41, Taylor answered the call of his friend, former Black Cap Tarun Nethula, to join Samoa at the qualifying tournament. Samoa will play Papua New Guinea for a place at next year’s T20 World Cup in India and Sri Lanka.

“It’s quite a powerful thing when players are asking you to come out of retirement and help them,” Taylor told the Stuff news website. “I’m no spring chicken but I’m sure I’m still fit enough to run around the boundary.”