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Retired New Zealand cricket star Ross Taylor announce comeback to play for the Samoan team

Cricket icon Ross Taylor, hailing from New Zealand, revealed his return from retirement on Friday, a span of almost four years since his departure. His goal is to aid Samoa in qualifying for the Twenty20 World Cup scheduled for the following year.

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Retired New Zealand cricketer Ross Taylor sets comeback, joins Samoa's cricket squad
Retired New Zealand cricketer Ross Taylor sets comeback, joins Samoa's cricket squad

Retired New Zealand cricket star Ross Taylor announce comeback to play for the Samoan team

Former Blackcaps Skipper Ross Taylor to Represent Samoa in World Cup Qualifiers

In a historic move for Samoan cricket, the renowned cricketer Ross Taylor has announced his decision to represent Samoa in the upcoming Cricket World Cup Asia-Pacific Qualifier series in Oman. Taylor, aged 41, has played 450 times for New Zealand across all three formats, including 112 Tests.

This decision marks a significant moment for Samoa, as Taylor is one of the most accomplished cricketers to switch allegiances. He became eligible to represent Samoa in April 2022, after the required stand-down period before switching allegiances.

Taylor's first international tournament representing Samoa will be the qualifying series in Oman. The top two teams from each group will advance to the Super Six stage, where the three teams that will qualify for the 2026 World Cup in India and Sri Lanka will be determined. Samoa is in Group 3 of the qualifying series, with Oman and Papua New Guinea as opponents.

The former Blackcaps skipper aims to give back to the game and share his experience, both on and off the field. He initially thought he would give back to cricket by coaching and donating gear, but he will now be playing. Taylor stated that this decision is a "huge honor" to represent the country of his mother's birth.

Taylor's announcement was made on social media, where he expressed his excitement for the opportunity. However, he has not specified whether he will be available for all matches in the qualifying series and beyond.

The World Cup Asia-Pacific qualifying series is a significant opportunity for smaller cricket nations to earn a spot in the 2026 World Cup. Taylor's decision to play for Samoa is not just about cricket; he also wants to give back to his heritage, culture, villages, and family.

This news comes after Taylor last played for New Zealand in early 2022. Despite his decision to represent Samoa, Taylor's contributions to New Zealand cricket remain undeniable. His legacy will continue to inspire future generations of cricketers in both countries.

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