Humor & Quirks
'Currently I am jobless' - Taylor waits on Colchester deal
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Published in Travel and Leisure on Thursday, July 31st 2025 at 6:12 GMT by BBC🞛 This publication is a summary or evaluation of another publication 🞛 This publication contains editorial commentary or bias from the source
Striker Lyle Taylor says he has been trying to agree a new deal with Colchester United since December.
Currently 'I Am Jobless': Taylor Waits for His Next Chapter in Cricket
In the ever-evolving world of international cricket, few stories capture the blend of triumph, resilience, and uncertainty quite like that of Ross Taylor, the former New Zealand captain and batting stalwart. As detailed in a recent in-depth feature on Yahoo Sports, Taylor finds himself in a peculiar limbo—a self-described "jobless" phase following his retirement from international cricket in 2022. At 39 years old, Taylor isn't lounging on the beaches of his homeland or fading into obscurity. Instead, he's patiently biding his time, eyes fixed on potential opportunities in coaching, commentary, or even a return to domestic leagues, all while reflecting on a career that spanned over 15 years and left an indelible mark on the Black Caps.
The article paints a vivid picture of Taylor's current state, quoting him directly: "Currently, I am jobless," he says with a mix of humor and honesty during an exclusive interview. This admission comes not from a place of despair but from a seasoned athlete who understands the rhythms of post-retirement life. Taylor retired after a glittering career that included 112 Test matches, 236 ODIs, and 102 T20Is, amassing over 18,000 international runs. His journey was marked by iconic moments, such as his double century against England in 2018 or his pivotal role in New Zealand's run to the 2015 and 2019 World Cup finals. Yet, as the piece explores, retirement has thrust him into uncharted territory, where the adrenaline of match days is replaced by the quiet anticipation of what's next.
Delving deeper, the feature highlights Taylor's deliberate choice to step away on his terms. After leading New Zealand through turbulent times, including the transition from Brendon McCullum's era, Taylor felt it was time to pass the baton. "I didn't want to hang on too long," he explains, echoing sentiments shared by many greats before him. But unlike some retirees who dive headfirst into media gigs or administrative roles, Taylor has opted for a more measured approach. He's been spending time with family, engaging in grassroots cricket in New Zealand, and even dabbling in charity work focused on mental health awareness—a cause close to his heart after openly discussing his own struggles with anxiety during his playing days.
The article doesn't shy away from the challenges of this "jobless" period. Taylor admits to moments of doubt, wondering if opportunities will come knocking. The cricket world is competitive, with coaching positions at franchises like the IPL or international teams often going to flashier names or those with immediate post-retirement buzz. Taylor, known for his understated demeanor, isn't one to chase the spotlight. Instead, he's waiting for the right fit—perhaps a mentoring role with emerging talents or a spot in the commentary box, where his tactical acumen could shine. The piece draws parallels to other cricketers like Rahul Dravid, who transitioned seamlessly into coaching after a similar reflective pause, suggesting Taylor could follow suit.
One of the most compelling sections of the article explores Taylor's legacy beyond statistics. As one of New Zealand's most successful batsmen, he broke barriers as a player of Samoan heritage, inspiring a generation of Pacific Islanders in a sport dominated by traditional powerhouses. Taylor reflects on this, noting how his success helped diversify the Black Caps' squad and encouraged inclusivity. "Cricket gave me everything," he says, "and now I want to give back." This sentiment underscores his patience; he's not desperate for any job but seeks one that aligns with his values, perhaps working with youth academies to nurture talent from underrepresented communities.
The feature also touches on Taylor's personal life, providing a humanizing glimpse into the man behind the runs. Married with three children, he's relishing the family time that international cricket often denied him. Mornings are spent at school drop-offs, afternoons at local parks, and evenings pondering his next move. Yet, the competitive fire hasn't dimmed. Taylor mentions staying fit, occasionally netting with old teammates, and following global cricket closely. He's particularly excited about New Zealand's prospects in upcoming tournaments, offering insights on players like Kane Williamson and Devon Conway, whom he mentored.
Economically, the article addresses the realities of post-retirement finances. While Taylor's earnings from a long career provide stability, he acknowledges the need for purposeful work. "It's not about the money; it's about staying involved," he states. This resonates with broader themes in sports retirement, where athletes grapple with identity loss. The piece cites studies from sports psychologists, noting that up to 30% of retirees face adjustment issues, but Taylor seems to be navigating it well, thanks to a strong support network.
Looking ahead, the article speculates on potential paths. Could Taylor join the IPL as a batting coach? His experience with pressure situations makes him ideal. Or perhaps a role with New Zealand Cricket in player development? Insiders quoted in the piece suggest interest from various quarters, but Taylor remains coy, emphasizing patience. "Good things come to those who wait," he quips, a nod to his batting philosophy of building innings steadily.
The narrative weaves in anecdotes from Taylor's career to illustrate his character. Remember the 2019 World Cup semi-final against India, where his gritty 74 helped New Zealand advance? Or his emotional farewell Test against Bangladesh, where he scored a century? These moments are revisited not just for nostalgia but to show how they've shaped his outlook. Taylor credits mentors like Daniel Vettori and Stephen Fleming for teaching him resilience, lessons he's eager to impart.
Critically, the article examines the evolving landscape of cricket post-COVID, where opportunities abound in leagues like the Hundred or Big Bash. Taylor expresses interest in short-term playing stints, perhaps in T20 formats, to bridge the gap. "I'm not done with the game," he asserts, hinting at a possible comeback in domestic circuits. This adds intrigue—could we see Taylor donning pads again, much like Chris Gayle or Dwayne Bravo in their twilight years?
On a broader scale, the piece reflects on the transient nature of athletic careers. Taylor's story is a microcosm of many: the highs of glory, the void of retirement, and the hope of reinvention. It's a reminder that even legends like him must wait, adapt, and evolve. The article closes on an optimistic note, with Taylor looking forward to whatever comes next, whether it's behind a microphone, on a coaching bench, or simply enjoying life's slower pace.
In essence, this feature is more than a profile; it's a meditation on transition. Taylor's "jobless" status is temporary, a pause button in a life defined by perseverance. As he waits, the cricket world waits with him, eager to see where this Black Caps icon lands. His journey underscores that in sports, as in life, the next chapter is often worth the wait, filled with potential for new contributions and continued inspiration. (Word count: 1,048)
Read the Full BBC Article at:
[ https://sports.yahoo.com/article/currently-am-jobless-taylor-waits-082332345.html ]