Shock comeback! Cricket legend, 41, ends retirement to play for Samoa - 'It's official'

Former New Zealand cricket star Ross Taylor has announced his return to cricket after a four-year retirement to help Samoa qualify for the upcoming T20 World Cup.The 41-year-old ex-Blackcaps captain will represent Samoa, his mother's native country."It's official -– I'm proud to announce that I'll be pulling on the blue and representing Samoa in cricket. This is more than just a return to the game I love, it's the huge honour to represent my heritage, culture, villages, and family. I'm excited for the opportunity to give back to the game, join the squad, and share my experience on and off the field," Taylor said on social media.Go Beyond The Boundary with our YouTube channel. SUBSCRIBE NOW!Taylor's illustrious career with New Zealand included 450 matches across all formats, with 112 Test appearances.His last appearance for New Zealand was in early 2022, and he became eligible to play for Samoa in April following the mandatory waiting period for switching national teams."I always wanted to give back in some capacity but didn't know that I'd be giving back in a playing capacity. I always thought it would be coaching and coaching young kids and donating gear where I could. But being able to get into the playing side of it, it's something that I'm looking forward to," he added.Taylor will participate in the World Cup Asia-Pacific qualifying series in Oman this October, where Samoa will compete in Group 3 alongside the host nation and Papua New Guinea.The qualifying tournament features three groups of three teams each, with the top two teams from each group advancing to the Super Six stage.The tournament will determine the top three teams that will secure their spots in the 2026 World Cup, scheduled to take place in India and Sri Lanka.