Kiwi Legend Comes Out of Retirement for A Special Reason

Former captain and Kiwi legend Ross Taylor comes out of retirement, but not to play for New Zealand. Instead, Ross Taylor has begun his new chapter with the Samoa cricket team at the East Asia Pacific (EAP) T20 World Cup Qualifiers, scheduled to start on 7 September 2025 in Pago Pago, American Samoa. Ross Taylor announced this unexpected comeback through his Instagram handle.

The Man. The Legend. The Legacy

Ross Taylor’s name stands tall in the list of legendary players to play for New Zealand. His contribution has been an essential part of Black Caps’ history. He announced his retirement from international cricket in April 2022, leaving behind a legacy that is hard to catch up with. Ross was the leading run scorer for New Zealand before Kane Williamson surpassed him. The numbers are substantial: 18,199 international runs, including 7,683 runs in Tests, 8,607 runs in ODIs, and 1,909 runs in T20Is.

He is the only New Zealand cricketer to have played 100 matches in all three formats, demonstrating his longevity, consistency, and adaptability. Ross was an integral part of New Zealand’s historic victory in the 2019-21 World Test Championship. His 181 against England at Dunedin in 2018 will always be one of the most memorable knocks of his career.

Ross on Why He Chose Samoa

Taylor, having Samoan heritage through her mother, explained why he shook hands with the Samoa Cricket Team: “Exciting to represent the country of my mother’s birth.” Said Taylor and added, “I always wanted to give back to the Polynesian community in some sort of way.” Interestingly also talked about the possibility of playing against New Zealand, “That’d be strange but cool. That’s the ultimate goal, get to the next stage, the World Cup.”

How is This Allowed by the ICC?

According to Article 2B of the ICC Player Eligibility Regulations, a player who has represented a Full Member can switch allegiance to an Associate Member after a three-year stand-down period. This perfectly explains how Ross Taylor, who retired in 2022, is now eligible to play for Samoa in the East Asia-Pacific qualifiers in 2025.

What Ross Taylor Means to Samoa

Taylor’s presence in the team is no less than a revolution for Samoa. His experience and wisdom at the highest levels can provide so much of needful to the Samoa team, and he can elevate the level of cricket in the Island Nation. The World Cup qualifiers are not just about Samoa making it to the World Cup, but also about a cricketing legend returning to his roots, and perhaps writing one last memorable chapter in his glorious career.