Tim Southee has ventured down as the Test skipper of New Zealand, with Tom Latham assuming control over the job all day, New Zealand Cricket declared on Wednesday (October 2). The declaration comes only a couple of days after New Zealand lost 2-0 in the Test series in Sri Lanka. Latham's most memorable task as full-time chief will be the impending Test series against India. Southee, the lead New Zealand paceman, has played 102 Tests for the group since making his presentation in 2008, stowing 382 wickets. He took over as commander from Kane Williamson in December 2022 and drove the group in 14 Test matches, with six successes, six misfortunes and two draws. Talking about his choice to step down, Southee said it was taken to the greatest advantage of the group. "Captaining the BLACKCAPS in an organization that is so unique to me, has been a flat out unbelievable honor," he said. "I've generally attempted to put the group first all through my profession and I accept this choice is awesome for the group. "I accept the manner in which I can best serve the group pushing ahead is zeroing in on my exhibitions on the field and returning to my best, to keep taking wickets and assisting New Zealand with winning Test matches. I will, as I've generally finished, keep on supporting my colleagues, particularly the thrilling youthful bowlers advancing on the global stage. I want Tom to enjoy all that life has to offer in the job and he realizes I'll be there to help him on his excursion, as he has accomplished for me throughout the long term," said Southee. Gary Stead, the New Zealand lead trainer, added: "Tim's a fabulous player and an excellent pioneer who is respected by the players and care staff. He's been an extraordinary worker of New Zealand Cricket over almost 17 years playing on the worldwide stage, and I might want to recognize his lowliness in venturing down from the job as Test skipper. "It's difficult quitting any trace of something you love, yet Tim is a genuine group man and he's settled on the choice with the group's wellbeing on a basic level. He's one of our most noteworthy ever players we still a lot of see him having an impact in our Test side pushing ahead," said Stead. New Zealand, the debut World Test Title champs, are right now positioned 6th in the WTC table. They will play three Tests against table-clinchers India, with Bengaluru (October 16-20), Pune (October 24-28) and Mumbai (November 1-5) facilitating the matches.