Ross Taylor sets sights on eclipsing mentor Sir Martin Crowe's batting record

  • 08/12/2017

Surpassing his mentor is first and foremost in the mind of Ross Taylor as he looks ahead to the second Test against the West Indies in Hamilton.

With 16 Test centuries to his name, the 33-year-old fell agonisingly short of equalling the great Sir Martin Crowe's record of 17, which he jointly holds with Blackcaps captain Kane Williamson.

Taylor was dismissed for 93 in his only bat in Wellington, but he will get another chance in conditions he has thrived in.

The 81-Test veteran has scored four centuries in nine Tests at Seddon Park, including 131 against the same opposition in 2013.

Taylor said the comforts of home are probably a big reason behind his success in Hamilton and he hopes that formula will see him raise his bat for the 17th time.

"I get to sleep in my own bed... I live here," Taylor told reporters on Friday.

"I know if I go through the right preparation and give myself the best chance to achieve, then I will be able to get to 17, 18 or whatever it may be.

"17 is the benchmark that Hogan [Crowe] wanted me to get to and beat; he said to carry on and don't stop there - but I'm sure in time Kane will end up with 40, so we can work it out after that [laughs]."

With the former national captain approaching the final few years of a 11-year-career, Taylor sees an opportunity to give something back to the young talent coming through.

Sir Martin Crowe
Sir Martin Crowe Photo credit: Getty

The Blackcaps have introduced fresh talent over the last three years, including Jeet Raval, Henry Nicholls, Mitchell Santner and Tom Latham.

Taylor sees himself as a mentor to the less-experienced batsmen in the side.

"I just want to score as many runs as I can - but I want to help out the team, the batting unit," Taylor said.

"There are a few youngsters that I want to help through the start of their careers.

"They tell me I'm getting old so it's up to me to stay fit and stay on the park."

Taylor confirmed the inclusion of pace bowler Tim Southee for the second Test, replacing Matt Henry.

The leader of the New Zealand attack missed Wellington as his partner gave birth to their first child.

Taylor is positive Southee will make an impact on his home track.

"Normally here it will do something for the first few hour," Taylor said of Seddon Park.

"Overhead conditions should play a part so it will be interesting to see what the two captains do.

"He (Southee) has a good record in Hamilton, and he will put pressure on this young West Indian side."

The Test is scheduled for an 11am start on Saturday.

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