Tim Southee Replaced By Tom Latham As New Zealand Test Captain

Tim Southee stood down as New Zealand captain on Wednesday in the wake of their heavy Test series defeat in Sri Lanka and will be replaced by Tom Latham.

Tim Southee stood down as New Zealand captain on Wednesday in the wake of their heavy Test series defeat in Sri Lanka and will be replaced by Tom Latham. Less than two years after inheriting the role from Kane Williamson, veteran seam bowler Southee said it is "best for the team" that he focus on his contribution as a player and wished Latham well. Opening batsman Latham, who has led the Black Caps in nine Tests, will take charge full-time on the three-Test tour of India starting in Bangalore on October 16.

A New Zealand Cricket statement said Southee would be included in the 15-man tour squad to be named later this week.

Southee said it was an "absolute honour" to lead New Zealand in 14 Tests since December 2022, resulting in six wins, six losses and two draws.

However, New Zealand's results have dipped over the last two years, including a 2-0 mauling from Sri Lanka in the two-Test series in Galle.

"I've always tried to put the team first throughout my career and I believe this decision is the best for the team," Southee said in a statement.