WELLINGTON, New Zealand (AP) — Tim Southee has stepped down as New Zealand’s test captain after the team’s heavy loss in a two-test series in Sri Lanka.

Opening batter Tom Latham will take over the captaincy for New Zealand’s three-test tour of India, with the first test starting Oct. 16 in Bengaluru.

The 35-year-old Southee took over as test captain from Kane Williamson in 2022, leading New Zealand in 14 tests with six wins, six losses and two draws.

The veteran swing bowler has taken 382 wickets in 102 tests, placing him second on the New Zealand all-time list behind Richard Hadlee. He has 35 wickets in his 14 tests as captain and took only two wickets in the Sri Lanka series in which New Zealand lost the first test by 63 runs and the second by an innings and 154 runs.

“Captaining the Black Caps in a format that’s so special to me has been an absolute honor and a privilege,” Southee said. “I’ve always tried to put the team first throughout my career and I believe this decision is the best for the team.

“I believe the way I can best serve the team moving forward is focusing on my performances on the field and getting back to my best, to continue taking wickets and helping New Zealand win test matches. I will, as I’ve always done, continue to support my teammates, especially the exciting young bowlers making their way on the international stage.”

Southee wished Latham well as captain “and he knows I’ll be there to support him on his journey, as he has done for me over the years.”

Latham already has captained New Zealand in nine tests, taking over from Williamson when he was recovering from an elbow injury. He also has led New Zealand in 44 one-day internationals.

Black Caps coach Gary Stead praised Southee’s contribution as captain.

“Tim’s a fantastic player and a very good leader who is held in high regard by the players and support staff,” Stead said. “He’s been a great servant of New Zealand cricket over nearly 17 years playing on the international stage, and I’d like to acknowledge his humility in stepping down from the role as test captain.

“It’s not easy giving up something you love but Tim is a true team-man and he’s made the decision with the team’s best interests at heart.”