E93 | Ross Taylor

Episode summary | Ross Taylor

Ross Taylor is one of New Zealand’s greatest ever cricketers! In a 16-year career with the Black Caps he made the most appearances, became the highest run scorer in ODIs and Tests, scored the most centuries, and took the most catches.

He has recently launched his book Black and White which covers these successes on the pitch as well as details his version of the events which led to him being ousted as Black Caps captain, his insecurities with Kane Williamson on the eve of the World Test Championship, his disappointment at the way the final stages of his career were handled, and some of the racial insensitivities he has dealt with over his life.

We chart his rise from Masterton alongside Jesse Ryder, as well as some insights into the early years of the IPL and other tours, and there is also touching sentiment on the impact of the late Sir Martin Crowe on his cricket career.

There is an incredible resilience about Ross and a mental toughness which is covered in a big warm smile with a huge dose of humility.

Show notes | Ross Taylor

1.51 Is Ross Taylor a HAMbassador?

4:06 The journey after launching the new book Black and White

10:23 The process of writing the book and pulling out transcripts after eight years

13:25 The fallout after the first five days

14:54 Will Ross Taylor still pay for half of Seamus’ wedding?

17:20 What’s The Time Mr. Wolf?

19:58 Opportunity costs and getting used to life at home

26:41 The change in Ross Taylor from the start of his career to the end

27:57 Rising through the ranks at Central Districts and growing up with Jesse Ryder

36:48 Early sponsorships, why Ross could never play rugby, and being available for domestic cricket

43:06 The mechanics of an IPL auction

48:45 The captaincy saga

56:11 Similarities to the Ian Foster All Blacks coaching situation

1:00:19 Does time heal old wounds?

1:06:55 Racism, culture, and identity

1:16:48 Ross Taylor on the late Sir Martin Crowe

1:23:46 The relationship with NZ Cricket

1:26:12 Ian Smith, Andy Haden, and Leanne McGoldrick

1:30:28 A conversation between Ross Taylor and Kane Williamson

1:33:23 The long, bumpy road to retirement

1:44:08 What’s next for Ross Taylor?

1:46:25 Some quick yarns the boom box in the Long Room at Lords, Peter Andre’s Mysterious Girl, and a near miss in St Kitts

1.54.03 Last words from Steven, Seamus and Ross