Taylor acknowledged by the Queen

Ross Taylor is to be a Companion of the New Zealand Order of Merit.
Photo: PHOTOSPORT

Former Black Caps batter Ross Taylor isn’t regretting he decision to retire after watching the first Test against England at Lords.

Taylor stepped away from international cricket in April and had spent the months since relishing his role as a spectator.

The 38-year-old is to be a Companion of the New Zealand Order of Merit in Monday’s Queen’s Birthday honours list, recognising his cricket career and work with Pacific communities.

The father of three had to keep his latest accolade quiet from the youngest members of his family.

“Quite often you tell the kids, but I didn’t really trust them they’d probably go tell their friends and it gets out. So once we did tell them obviously they were very happy and proud but to be fair they didn’t really know what it was and I needed to explain what it is but I’m sure over time they’ll understand a little bit more,” Taylor said.

Another person who Taylor said would be proud is his mother Naoupu Lote-Taylor.

“You win Man of the Match awards and win trophies and Player of the Series awards but this extra special and from where it comes from and what you’ve achieved to have received it is something that I am proud of. It’s not just for me, it’s my team mates who have helped me out and obviously a lot of family and friends.”

Time with family was one of the benefits of no longer being on tour with the Black Caps, who are currently in England.

Taylor admitted he did not know how he would feel when the first New Zealand team since his retirement was announced.

“England was one of my favourite places to tour and to play at Lords and all of those other things but I’m still happy with my decision.

“I’m enjoying watching from the other side and I’m looking forward to being a fan and a supporter in the years to come.”

Watching cricket was how Taylor grew his love of the game as a youngster and now he can go back to that.

“Quite often I used to watch a game of cricket in a different way, for how I can learn and learn off other players, so obviously now I don’t have to look at it as closely, take the emotion out of it and watch it for what it is.”

Taylor was also perfecting his sideline approach for his children’s sports.

“I watched my daughter play two games of netball in a row which I haven’t been able to do for her whole life so it was quite nice to do things that probably most people do a lot where with the career that I’ve had I haven’t been able to do those little things which as a dad is very satisfying.

“I’m definitely not as vocal as some of the other mums and dads on the court but I’m sure over time I’ll develop whatever way it is.”

Although, Taylor has not stopped his own fitness routine as he looks to still turn out for a domestic side or an overseas team.

“I haven’t hit as many balls but I’m still training as if I’m playing cricket. The treadmill is getting a bit of a hammering at the moment, cricket is almost easier than the training side of it but it is nice to still be active and nice to know that you’re still going to be playing some cricket.”

Taylor also promised some new “projects” this coming summer.