New Zealand announced the squad for the upcoming three-game home Test series EnglandIn Christchurch from November 28. The series promises exciting contests with the star player set to make a comeback in the red ball format.
Kane Williamson has a groin injury
Kane WilliamsonThe former New Zealand captain and premiership batsman will return to the Test format after recovering from a groin injury sustained in Sri Lanka. The injury ruled him out of New Zealand’s recent 3-0 series win against India, his absence felt despite the team’s successful performance. Williamson replaced Mark Chapman will enter the squad and will add experience and stability to the batting line-up as New Zealand prepare to host England.
Nathan Smith earns his first Test call-up
Comprehensive Nathan Smith He was selected for the first time in New Zealand’s Test squad. The 26-year-old recently made his international debut in the ODI series against Sri Lanka but got off to a rocky start, conceding 66 runs in eight overs and scoring just nine runs with the bat. Nevertheless, Smith’s impressive performance in domestic cricket, claiming 33 wickets at an average of 17 in the Plunket Shield, earned him a place in the red-ball set-up.
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Mitchell Santner will lead the spin attack in the second and third Tests
Mitchell SantnerThe 13 wickets that led New Zealand to a memorable victory over India recently will play a crucial role in the second and third Tests in Wellington and Hamilton respectively. However, he was not selected for the series opener in Christchurch, with New Zealand opting to assess the conditions before introducing the frontline spinner in subsequent matches.
Ben Sears and Kyle Jamieson are out through injury
New Zealand will be without fast bowler Ben Sears and all-rounder Kyle Jamiesonboth of them are rehabilitating from their injuries. Sears is recovering from a knee injury, while Jamieson continues to work through a back injury. Their absence creates opportunities for other players in the pace attack to step up in high-stakes series.
New Zealand squad for England Tests
Tom Latham (c), Tom Blundell (wk), Devon Conway, Jacob Duffy, Matt Henry, Daryl Mitchell, Will O’Rourke, Glenn Phillips, Rachin Ravindra, Mitchell Santner (2nd & 3rd Tests), Nathan Smith, Tim Southee, Kane Williamson, Will Young
