• Source:JND
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Samoa T20 Squad: Former New Zealand run machine Ross Taylor surprised everyone as he was named in Samoa squad for the upcoming Asia-East Asia-Pacific T20 World Cup 2026 Qualifier in Oman. Notably, this will be Samoa's first-ever appearance in the global event. The Asia-East Asia-Pacific T20 World Cup 2026 Qualifier is scheduled to begin on October 8.

Their maiden appearance in the qualifier tournament will be their first attempt as they target the ICC Men's T20 World Cup qualification in 2026. Interestingly, Taylor is a well-known name in the Cricketing circuit, representing New Zealand in over 450 matches across formats.

Ross Taylor's Samoan Community And Its Significance

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Taylor, who is a proud 'Samoan', wants to represent his heritage and give back to the community he was born in. His official Instagram post reads - "It's official - I'm proud to announce that I'll be pulling on the blue and representing Samoa in cricket. This is more than just a return to the game I love - it's the huge honour to represent my heritage, culture, villages and family. I'm excited for the opportunity to give back to the game, join the squad, and share my experience on and off the field," Taylor wrote on Instagram.

Being a 41-year-old, Taylor has not been completely out of touch with Cricket as he has featured in several leagues post-retirement. Taylor obtained his Samoan passport through his mother's heritage. As per a standard rule, he will be eligible to represent his second national team after seeing off a three-year standout period.

He features among several inclusions as Samoa aims to secure a spot in the marquee event, which will be held in India and Sri Lanka next year. Sean Solia has returned to the fold, while Darius Visser, who walloped 39 runs off an over in Sub-Regional qualifying, also features in the mix.

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Taylor will play under the captaincy of Caleb Jasmat, who led the side in Sub-Regional qualifying, and shocked the world by beating off the likes of Vanuatu, Cook Islands and Fiji to claim their spot at the new hybrid Asia/East Asia-Pacific Qualifier.

Samoa will fight for the three spots available alongside Papua New Guinea and Japan in a competition also featuring Oman, Nepal, Kuwait, Malaysia, Qatar, and the UAE.

Samoa T20 Squad: Caleb Jasmat (c), Ross Taylor, Darius Visser, Sean Solia, Daniel Burgess, Douglas Finau, Sam French, Kurtis Hynam-Nyberg, Ben Mailata, Noah Mead, Solomon Nash, Samson Sola, Fereti Sululoto, Saumani Tiai, Ili Tugaga.

Inputs from ANI