New Zealand batsman Ross Taylor will try to play in straight form in the warm-up matches against the Netherlands before coming out of the COVID-19 isolation and bidding farewell to cricket in the following ODI series.
Out of first-class play for the Central Stags as a close contact with a COVID-19 case, the 38-year-old will instead play white-ball matches for a developing New Zealand XI at McLean Park in Napier from next week. ,
“It would be nice to go there and play for the Staggies,” he said in a video call from home.
“But to play some white-ball cricket with more intensity, I think it is the ideal preparation. It’s a great opportunity to see the Netherlands up close and obviously have some Kiwi connections to them as well.”
New Zealand’s most prolific batsman ended his 112-match Test career on a high in January, capturing Bangladesh’s final wicket with his part-time spin to clinch a series-level win.
The ODI series against the Netherlands begins in Mount Maunganui on March 29, with the final two matches at Taylor’s home ground at Seddon Park in Hamilton, where family and friends will gather.
“I’m not expecting to have a bowl,” the 233 ODI veteran joked.
“I think it’s emotional when you’ve done something for so long… Playing on home ground in front of family and friends will bring an emotional connection. But I’m looking forward to the next chapter and excited to play my last series.” It’s been a long time since we played.”
Taylor will be the ‘greybeard’ of the New Zealand XI captained by Wellington batsman Michael Bracewell, nephew of former Test player John and Brendan.
Taylor said Bracewell was making his international debut after a stellar domestic season and a spot in New Zealand’s white-ball squads.
“It’s an opportunity for him to put his name out there, and I’m sure if it’s not this summer, which wouldn’t surprise me, in the next year or so I’m sure he’ll get a run.”
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