Ross Taylor, a revered figure in New Zealand cricket, is making a sensational return to the international stage, but this time, he's donning the colors of Samoa. At 41, Taylor, who retired from international cricket in 2022, is set to play in the T20 World Cup qualifiers in Oman this October.

Taylor's decision to represent Samoa is deeply personal, as his mother was born there. This move is not just a comeback but a tribute to his roots. "It's official – I'm proud to announce that I'll be pulling on the blue and representing Samoa in cricket," Taylor shared on Instagram. He expressed that this opportunity allows him to honor his heritage, culture, and family while contributing his vast experience to the Samoan team.

With a career spanning 16 years, Taylor has played 450 matches for New Zealand across various formats, including 112 Test matches. His experience and skill are expected to be invaluable to Samoa as they compete against teams like Papua New Guinea, Japan, Oman, Nepal, Kuwait, Malaysia, Qatar, and UAE in the qualifiers.

The qualifiers will determine three teams that will advance to the T20 World Cup, scheduled for February and March next year in India and Sri Lanka. Taylor’s participation is anticipated to bring not only expertise but also inspiration to the Samoan squad and cricket enthusiasts worldwide.

This historic comeback highlights Taylor's enduring passion for cricket and his commitment to giving back to the sport. Fans eagerly await his performance as he steps onto the field once more, representing a new chapter in his illustrious career.