Tom Latham has steadily become a cornerstone of New Zealand cricket. Known for his calm presence at the crease and sharp wicket-keeping skills, Latham combines reliability with the ability to play match-defining innings. Whether it’s in Tests, ODIs, or T20Is, he’s proven himself to be a versatile and clutch performer.
Let’s dive into the journey, stats, and career highlights of this Kiwi stalwart.
Personal Profile: Who is Tom Latham?
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Full Name: Tom Latham
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Date of Birth: April 02, 1992 (33 years)
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Birth Place: Christchurch, Canterbury, New Zealand
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Height: 180 cm
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Role: Wicket-Keeper Batsman
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Batting Style: Left-Handed
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Bowling Style: Right-Arm Medium
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Country: New Zealand
Latham’s calm and composed batting, coupled with his dependable wicket-keeping, makes him a vital member of New Zealand’s lineup. Fans and teammates alike trust him to anchor innings and provide stability in pressure situations.
Batting Stats – A Closer Look at Tom Latham’s Numbers
Latham is primarily recognized for his batting across all formats. Let’s explore his numbers in detail.
Test Cricket
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Matches: 88
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Innings: 158
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Runs: 5,835
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Highest Score: 264
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Average: 38.39
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Strike Rate: 47.51
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50s/100s/200s: 31 / 13 / 2
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Fours/Sixes: 665 / 19
Latham’s Test record reflects his ability to play long innings and anchor the batting order. His patience and technical skills make him a dependable player in high-pressure situations.
One Day Internationals (ODIs)
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Matches: 157
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Innings: 144
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Runs: 4,361
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Highest Score: 145
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Average: 34.61
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Strike Rate: 85.68
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50s/100s: 26 / 8
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Fours/Sixes: 364 / 60
In ODIs, Latham balances stability with aggression, often playing the role of a reliable finisher or anchor depending on the team’s requirements.
T20 Internationals (T20Is)
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Matches: 26
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Innings: 23
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Runs: 516
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Highest Score: 65
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Average: 25.8
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Strike Rate: 108.87
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50s/100s: 3 / 0
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Fours/Sixes: 42 / 8
Though not primarily known as a T20 specialist, Latham adapts well in the shorter format, providing steady starts and guiding innings when required.
Bowling Stats
Tom Latham’s main contribution to the team comes with the bat and gloves, so he hasn’t bowled in international cricket.
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Tests / ODIs / T20Is Bowling: N/A
His focus remains on anchoring innings, rotating the strike, and executing precise wicket-keeping.
Career Timeline – Key Debuts & Matches
Latham has built a solid international career across formats. Here’s a timeline of his major milestones:
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T20I Debut: vs West Indies, Jun 30, 2012, at Central Broward Regional Park Stadium Turf Ground
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Last T20I: vs Pakistan, Apr 24, 2023, at Rawalpindi Cricket Stadium
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Test Debut: vs India, Feb 14, 2014, at Basin Reserve
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Last Test: vs England, Dec 14, 2024, at Seddon Park
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ODI Debut: vs Zimbabwe, Feb 03, 2012, at University Oval
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Last ODI: vs India, Mar 09, 2025, at Dubai International Cricket Stadium
This timeline showcases Latham’s consistency and longevity in international cricket.
Wicket-Keeping: Sharp Reflexes Behind the Stumps
Latham’s role as a wicket-keeper is as crucial as his batting. Known for his quick reflexes, sharp catches, and reliable stumpings, he brings a calm presence behind the stumps. His wicket-keeping has often helped New Zealand save crucial runs and turn matches around.
Strengths That Make Latham Stand Out
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Calm and Composed: Latham rarely loses his cool under pressure, making him an anchor in tough situations.
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Versatility Across Formats: Performs in Tests, ODIs, and T20Is, adapting his batting style to the situation.
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Dependable Wicket-Keeper: Combines batting reliability with safe and effective keeping.
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Big-Match Temperament: Has produced match-winning innings against top teams in high-stakes games.
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Longevity and Experience: Over a decade of international cricket has shaped him into a senior figure in the Kiwi lineup.
Notable Achievements
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Scored a double century (264) in Test cricket, highlighting his ability to play long innings.
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Over 4,000 runs in ODIs with 8 centuries, demonstrating consistency in the 50-over format.
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Reliable wicket-keeper with numerous match-saving catches and stumpings.
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Part of New Zealand’s core team in World Cups and high-pressure international series.
Memorable Moments
Some of Latham’s most memorable contributions include:
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Anchoring innings in challenging Test conditions abroad.
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Scoring centuries under pressure to stabilize New Zealand’s batting order.
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Performing consistently as a wicket-keeper, including crucial stumpings in tight games.
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Leading by example in ODIs, often scoring at the top of the order to set up successful chases.
How Latham Shapes New Zealand Cricket’s Future
Tom Latham embodies reliability and leadership. His consistency allows New Zealand to build batting strategies around him, especially in Tests and ODIs. As he continues his career, Latham’s experience and calm presence will be invaluable for grooming young players and maintaining stability in the team.
Also Read : Rishabh Pant Profile – Age, Career Info & Stats
Fun Facts About Tom Latham
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Latham was born in Christchurch, Canterbury, one of New Zealand’s cricketing hubs.
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He bats left-handed but bowls right-arm medium, though he rarely bowls in international cricket.
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He has played over a decade in international cricket, showcasing longevity and dedication.
Conclusion
Tom Latham may not always grab headlines with explosive shots, but his importance to New Zealand cricket cannot be overstated. He is a dependable left-handed batsman, a safe pair of hands behind the stumps, and a player who thrives under pressure.
From anchoring Test innings to scoring crucial runs in ODIs and T20Is, Latham’s all-around contributions make him a pivotal part of New Zealand’s cricketing fabric. As he continues to play and lead by example, fans can expect more memorable performances and match-winning innings from this Kiwi stalwart.
FAQs About Tom Latham
Q1: What is Tom Latham’s primary role in the team?
A: He is a left-handed wicket-keeper batsman and occasionally bowls right-arm medium.
Q2: Has Latham played T20 cricket internationally?
A: Yes, he has represented New Zealand in 26 T20Is.
Q3: What is Tom Latham’s highest Test score?
A: 264 runs in a single innings.
Q4: How many centuries has he scored in ODIs?
A: 8 centuries in 157 matches.
Q5: Can Latham bowl in international cricket?
A: No, he focuses on batting and wicket-keeping.
