NZ vs NED: Emotional Ross Taylor breaks down during national anthem in farewell match

Ross Taylor couldn’t control his tears ahead of his final outing in the international arena. The ongoing third and final ODI between New Zealand and the Netherlands marks Taylor’s farewell game and congratulatory wishes are pouring in from different corners. One of the finest batters to have represented the Blackcaps, the 38-year-old piled up a plethora of runs in his international career and took the Kiwis to numerous wins over the years.

Ahead of the encounter at Seddon Park in Hamilton, Taylor brought his three children – Mackenzie, Jonty, and Adelaide – out with him for the national anthem. The trio were also sporting the Blackcaps jersey with their dad’s name etched on the back. As soon as the national anthem started, Taylor couldn’t control his emotions as he bit his lip and blinked away the tears.

After the anthem was over, he was consoled by long-time teammate Martin Guptill, who was standing right beside him. Meanwhile, Taylor’s wife Victoria, and extended family were also at the venue. Moreover, Taylor gave away some of his complimentary tickets to “some builders across the road.” He told the same to Spark Sport.

Ross Taylor makes his 450th and final appearance for New Zealand

Taylor, who made his international debut in March 2006, is featuring in his 450th and final game of cricket for New Zealand. He had announced his retirement plans at the end of last year. The veteran batter’s journey in the international arena has certainly been terrific as he took the Kiwis to several wins across formats.

Notably, he’s the only player to date to have played at least 100 matches in all three formats in international cricket. He also played an instrumental role in New Zealand’s stunning rise in the cricket world. In fact, at the time of his international retirement, Taylor is the third-ranked ODI batter, and the same showcases his class and consistency. Meanwhile, stand-in Kiwi skipper Tom Latham won the toss in the final ODI and opted to bat first. Having won the previous two games, the Kiwis have already clinched the series and are now aiming for a whitewash.