Follow UsNew Zealand batter Kane Williamson has been named in the squad for the first Test of the three-match series against West Indies, New Zealand Cricket (NZC) announced on November 24 (Monday). The former Blackcaps skipper, who is on a casual contract, has not played a Test for New Zealand all year.
He backed out of the Test series against Zimbabwe earlier this year. “Kane’s ability on the field speaks for itself and it will be great to have his skills as well as his leadership back in the Test group,” New Zealand head coach Rob Waler said.
“He’s had a bit of time off to get himself ready for red-ball cricket, and I know he’s looking forward to playing for Northern Districts in the second round of the Plunket Shield in the lead-up to the first Test.”
Other than Williamson, Daryl Mitchell, who missed the latter stages of the white-ball series against the West Indies, returns after recovering from a groin injury. Jacob Duffy, Zak Foulkes and Blair Tickner further strengthen the pace attack that already consists of Matt Henry and Nathan Smith.
“Zak couldn’t have performed much better in his first Test against Zimbabwe. That, along with his recent form across the white-ball tours, has rightfully earned him selection," Walter said.
“Both Jacob and Blair have been around a while and know what it takes to perform at the highest level. They’ve impressed in their white-ball opportunities so far this summer and we back them to do so in the Test arena if called upon.”
The first Test will get underway on December 2 in Christchurch.
New Zealand squad for 1st Test vs West Indies: Tom Latham (c), Tom Blundell (wk), Michael Bracewell, Devon Conway, Jacob Duffy, Zak Foulkes, Matt Henry, Daryl Mitchell, Rachin Ravindra, Mitchell Santner, Nathan Smith, Blair Tickner, Kane Williamson, Will Young