Tom Latham: The Dependable Rock of New Zealand Cricket

"Just the way a father is the pillar of a family, Tom Latham is the pillar of the New Zealand cricket team," wrote a fan on social media. And it's hard to disagree with that assessment. Tom Latham, the left-handed opening batsman and wicket-keeper, has been a rock for the Black Caps for over a decade now.
Born on April 2, 1992, in Christchurch, Latham made his international debut in an ODI against South Africa in 2012. He was just 20 years old at the time, and has since gone on to establish himself as one of the most consistent batsmen in world cricket.
Latham is known for his solid technique and unflappable temperament. He's not the most flamboyant or aggressive batsman, but he's always there, quietly accumulating runs and anchoring the New Zealand innings.
He especially relishes the role of an opener, where he can set the tempo of the innings and provide a solid foundation for the middle order to build on. He has a Test average of over 40, with 20 centuries to his name, including a career-best 264 against Sri Lanka in 2018.
Apart from his batting skills, Latham is also a capable wicket-keeper. He has taken over 250 dismissals in international cricket, and is known for his safe hands and quick reflexes.
Latham's contributions to New Zealand cricket have been immense. He has played a key role in the team's success in recent years, including their victory in the 2021 World Test Championship.
He is also a respected figure in the dressing room, and is often seen mentoring younger players. His calm demeanor and positive attitude have earned him the respect of his teammates and opponents alike.

In an era of flashy batsmen and fast-paced cricket, Tom Latham is a refreshing throwback to a more traditional style of play.

He is a true Test match batsman, who can bat for hours and grind out runs against the toughest of attacks. He is also a selfless team player, who is always willing to put the team's needs ahead of his own.

Tom Latham is a true legend of New Zealand cricket, and he will go down in history as one of the greats.