Overview

• Taylor confirmed the move on September 5 and was named in Samoa’s 15‑player squad captained by Caleb Jasmat.
• The Asia–EAP regional final runs in Oman from October 8–17, with Samoa grouped with hosts Oman and Papua New Guinea before a Super Six stage decides three qualifiers for the 2026 T20 World Cup in India and Sri Lanka.
• ICC rules permit the switch because Taylor holds a Samoan passport through his mother and completed the required three‑year cooling‑off period since his last New Zealand appearance in April 2022.
• The former New Zealand captain logged more than 18,000 international runs in 450 matches and says the comeback is about representing his heritage and sharing experience on and off the field.
• Samoa’s setup features strong New Zealand links, with Auckland all‑rounder Sean Solia in the squad and former Black Caps Tarun Nethula and Jeet Raval on the coaching staff.