NZ Legend Switches Countries; Set to Play for Samoa

The ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026 is set to be co-hosted by India and Sri Lanka. The tournament will feature 20 teams, including direct qualifiers, top-ranked nations, and teams advancing through regional qualifiers. The main event is scheduled to begin in India and Sri Lanka, with matches planned across multiple cities in both countries.
The best cricket teams in the world will take part in this tournament. A total of 87 teams are taking part in the qualification process, which includes regional sub-qualifiers and regional finals across Africa, the Americas, Europe, Asia, and the East Asia-Pacific (EAP) regions. Teams such as Canada, Italy, the Netherlands, and Samoa are among the nations competing in these qualifiers.

The regional qualification tournaments are scheduled to conclude in October 2025, with the final list of participants for the 2026 T20 World Cup being confirmed soon after. From the Asia-East Asia-Pacific region, Samoa have advanced to the final stage of the qualifiers. The team will compete in the Asia-Pacific T20 World Cup 2026 Qualifier in Oman, which begins on October 8, 2025. This is a major milestone for Samoa as they aim to make their first entry into a global men’s T20 World Cup event. To enhance their chances of qualifying for the main tournament, the team has now added a strong, experienced player to its squad to improve their World Cup qualifier chances. Samoa’s squad featured both local talents and experienced players.

Ross Taylor Samoa Participation: NZ Legend Set for a Grand Return

In a significant development, New Zealand cricket legend Ross Taylor has joined Samoa for the Asia-East Asia-Pacific T20 World Cup 2025 Qualifier in Oman. Taylor, who previously represented New Zealand, holds a Samoan passport through his mother’s heritage. His inclusion brings international experience and leadership to the Samoan squad, which is aiming for its maiden appearance at the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup.

Ross Taylor Samoa appearance marks a rare moment in international cricket where a former player of one national team represents another country. Taylor’s decision to play for Samoa highlights his connection to his maternal heritage and his willingness to contribute to cricket development in the Pacific Islands. The Asia-East Asia Pacific T20 Qualifier will feature nine teams, including Papua New Guinea and Japan. Samoa’s addition of Taylor is expected to boost the team’s performance and visibility on the international stage.

“Coming out of retirement. 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,” said Taylor on Instagram about making an official comeback to cricket post retirement.
“I'm excited for the opportunity to give back to the game, join the squad, and share my experience on and off the field. Time to get back out there – #685 to the world! CHEEEHOOO,” he added.

Ross Taylor Retirement, Career & Stats

Ross Taylor's retirement came from New Zealand cricket after April 2022. Over his career, Taylor played more than 100 T20 international matches and amassed over 1900 runs at a strike rate of 122.37. He also scored over 18,000 runs in all formats for Black Caps, including appearances in IPL and CPL tournaments.

Taylor's retirement from New Zealand cricket marked the end of a long and distinguished international career. He retired as one of the best batsmen in the world with several records to his name. He was known for his consistency, temperament, and the ability to perform under pressure. Now, with his Samoa stint, he has the opportunity to re-enter competitive cricket and help Samoa achieve a historic milestone.

Taylor’s batting, fielding, and tactical knowledge will be crucial during the qualifier in Oman, where Samoa aims to finish in the top three to secure a spot in the 2026 T20 World Cup. The Samoan squad, including players like Sean Solia and Darius Visser, will benefit from Taylor’s leadership.

His involvement in the Asia-East Asia-Pacific T20 World Cup 2026 Qualifier adds credibility and experience to the team. If Samoa succeeds in the qualifier, it will mark a remarkable achievement in their cricketing history, and Ross Taylor comeback will be remembered as a key factor in this milestone.