Ross Taylor, a seasoned New Zealand batsman, retired from cricket today after 16 years of outstanding service. In his final encounter, he took a catch to secure his team’s 115-run victory over the Netherlands. Ross has 40 international centuries, three double centuries, and 93 half-centuries to his credit.
New Zealand scored 333 after winning the toss and losing eight wickets, with Martin Guptill and Will Young each reaching hundreds. Matt Henry grabbed four wickets as the Netherlands were bowled out for 218 in the last ODI of the series, giving New Zealand a 115-run victory at Seddon Park in Hamilton.
Martin Guptill on Ross Taylor
Martin Guptill, New Zealand’s opening batsman, acknowledged his emotions and paid a poignant homage to his teammate Taylor. He added that it will be much more difficult to swallow when the players wake up the next day to learn that the renowned cricketer is no longer a member of the squad.
“This is it; this is the last time we saw him walk out of the New Zealand team. It’ll be even more emotional when we wake up tomorrow morning and Ross is no longer going to be there. It will be tough, but we will have a good night tonight celebrating the Netherlands vs New Zealand series,” Guptill said.
Martin Guptill further termed Taylor as a legendary cricketer and hoped that they will catch up with each other off the field in the near future. “Rosco (Ross Taylor) is an absolute legend and all of us are going to miss him around the group. He has been phenomenal and absolutely lovely and hopefully, we can catch up over the coming years,” Guptill added.
Former Indian cricketer Sachin Tendulkar wished Ross Taylor as well.
“You’ve been a great ambassador of the game Ross! It was wonderful playing against you. The way you reinvented yourself over the years to adapt is an inspiration for all the young kids aspiring to be cricketers. Heartiest congratulations on a fabulous career,” tweeted Sachin Tendulkar.
You’ve been a great ambassador of the game Ross! It was wonderful playing against you. The way you reinvented yourself over the years to adapt is an inspiration for all the young kids aspiring to be cricketers.
Heartiest congratulations on a fabulous career. pic.twitter.com/RpB62iuuD0
— Sachin Tendulkar (@sachin_rt) April 4, 2022
