Tom Latham has been an electric force in the New Zealand set-up and yet he is not talked about that frequently. However, the Kiwi captain has proven his worth over the years and continues to be a major driving force in the Indian echelons.
His numbers in the longest format of the game are equally impressive and his signature calm in the yard makes him a people’s favourite. Here are three reasons why Tom Latham is the most underrated Test cricketer of all time.
#1 Consistent performer
Tom Latham has been a key element in the Kiwi set-up and continues to be a driving force for the Black Caps. With 5634 runs featuring 13 centuries and 30 fifties, Latham has delivered in the Kiwi threads consistently. More importantly, he has grown with the team and he continues to bring the band of brothers together in an international set-up.
#2 A saviour under the pump
Whether it is to take up the captaincy suddenly or to save the team under profoundly difficult situations, Latham has stepped up like a true warrior.
His striking ability conflated with the kind of signature calm needed to brave almost insurmountable circumstances and Latham has never shied away from any bit of it. He has taken accountability for his failures and has ensured the fact that he learnt from his mistakes to fight his way back.
#3 A lovely human being
When you are playing a Test match, the entire ball game is different. You have different spells of the game where you may have defeats or bad sessions. You may have to fight a mountain of odds or may even have situations which will intensify your exhilarations.
However, as a cricketer, you would have to perform your best and yet be kind to your players and your audience, Latham is loved by everyone while he continues to deliver high-octane performances for New Zealand in Tests.