Follow UsFormer New Zealand captain Kane Williamson has opted out of playing the two-match Test series against Zimbabwe to manage his playing commitments, according to a media release from New Zealand Cricket (NZC). Willismson is not contracted with the NZC as he has rejected the central contract, which allows him the freedom to pick and choose the international matches he wants to play.
Williamson last played a Test for New Zealand against England at home last year. He is currently part of the Middlesex side, who are participating in the Vitality Blast T20. Along with Williamson, Michael Bracewell too will not be part of the Zimbabwe Tests due to his commitments with The Hundred, which is agreed when he signed the NZC contract.
New Blackcaps head coach Rob Walter understands the situation with both players. “Kane and Michael were up front with New Zealand Cricket about their availability for this tour during the contracting process," he said.
“While all Test matches are hugely special and important, the fact these Tests aren’t part of the ICC World Test Championship did influence the discussions on this occasion."
Ben Sears (side injury) and Kyle Jamieson (awaiting birth of his first child) will also not be part of the series.
While Ajaz Patel and Henry Nicholls return to the squad, Northern Districts pacer Matt Fisher earns his maiden call-up. The 25-year-old has impressed in the domestic circuit, having picked up 51 wickets at 24.11 in 14 first-class matches.
Both Tests will be played at the Queens Sports Club, Bulawayo, starting from July 30.
New Zealand Test squad: Tom Latham (c), Tom Blundell, Devon Conway, Jacob Duffy, Matt Fisher, Matt Henry, Daryl Mitchell, Henry Nicholls, Will O'Rourke, Ajaz Patel, Glenn Phillips, Rachin Ravindra, Mitch Santner, Nathan Smith, Will Young