Cricket: Taylor named Black Caps captain

Ross Taylor. Photo / Christine Cornege

Ross Taylor was today named as the new captain of the Black Caps.

New Zealand Cricket made the announcement of Daniel Vettori's replacement at a press conference in Auckland this afternoon.

Taylor will lead the side in all forms of the game - test, one-day internationals and Twenty20.

The 27-year-old was chosen ahead of wicketkeeper Brendon McCullum for the role, after both presented their cases over the last few days.

Vettori stepped down from the role after New Zealand were knocked out of the Cricket World Cup in March.

The New Zealand Cricket Board fully endorsed the recommendation of NZC Director of Cricket John Buchannan, Black Caps coach John Wright and Acting National Selection Manager Mark Greatbatch.

New Zealand Cricket CEO Justin Vaughan said Ross Taylor has the characteristics required to be a successful leader.

"Ross has been an impressive deputy to Dan Vettori since taking over the vice-captaincy and shown to be a very capable leader when he has had the opportunity.

"We are delighted by Ross's appointment and believe he will proudly lead the Black Caps in what promises to be an exciting time for the team

"The process to select the captain has been robust. We wanted to make sure the right people were involved and that we appointed the right man for the job - I'm sure we have done that.

"While I congratulate Ross I would also like to acknowledge the wonderful contribution Daniel Vettori has made during his time as captain. Dan has been an astute leader and excellent role model and I would like to pass on my thanks on behalf of every cricket fan across the country."

Taylor captained the Black Caps in a one dayer for the first time last year when Vettori was injured, a two-wicket victory over Australia, and took charge of the Twenty20 team during Pakistan's tour of New Zealand last summer.

He also led the Black Caps twice at this year's World Cup in a victory over Canada and a loss to Sri Lanka.

The middle-order batsman has played in 30 tests for New Zealand, averaging 41.12 and scoring five centuries. He has also played 107 ODIs since his debut in 2006, averaging 36.80 with four tons and 20 half-centuries.

Taylor said he was humbled to be named Black Caps captain.

"I've learnt a great deal about leadership having played under Dan Vettori and feel ready to take on what is one of the highest honours in New Zealand sport.

"I'm looking forward to the challenge and appreciate the level of responsibility that comes with captaining your country.

"I believe we have the quality in the dressing room to be a force in world cricket and I'm keen to play the best cricket possible to help take the team forward. I'm excited about the future."

- HERALD ONLINE