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New Zealand’s veteran pacer Tim Southee has stepped down as Test captain after facing a cleansweep in the two-Test series on Sri Lankan soil. Southee relinquished captaincy to focus on his bowling which has been far from his best of late. Tom Latham has been named the new captain of the side ahead of three-Test series against India.
"Captaining the Blackcaps in a format that's so special to me, has been an absolute honour and a privilege," Southee said. "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 will, as I've always done, continue to support my team-mates, especially the exciting young bowlers making their way on the international stage. 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."
Southee managed to take just two wickets in Sri Lanka. Against Australia, Bangladesh and South Africa he struggled to take wickets too. He has captained New Zealand in 14 Tests with six wins and defeats each whereas two ended in a draw.
Head coach, NZC CEO laud Southee’s selfless act
Head coach Gary Stead lauded Southee for his selfless decision, putting the team’s interests first.
"Tim's a fantastic player and a very good leader who is held in high regard by the players and support staff," he said. "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. He's one of our greatest ever players and we still very much see him playing a part in our Test side moving forward."
New Zealand Cricket CEO Scott Weenink called Southee a 'true leader' for wanting to do the best thing possible for the team.
"It's a measure of the man that he continues to put the team interests ahead of his own and, despite his obvious personal disappointment, wants to do the best thing possible for everyone else. To me, that's the sign of a true leader in every sense of the word," Weenink said.
Meanwhile, New Zealand are yet to announce their squad for the three-Test series against India. The Test series will commence on October 16 at M.Chinnaswamy Stadium, Bengaluru.
