WELLINGTON:Prolific batsman Kane Williamson has been named in New Zealand’s Test squad to face England, marking his return after missing the recent 3-0 series loss in India due to a groin injury.
Williamson, New Zealand’s all-time leading Test run-scorer with 8,881 runs at an impressive average of 54.48, will reunite with veteran pacer Tim Southee, who is set to retire from Test cricket after the three-match series. The series begins on November 28 in Christchurch, followed by matches in Wellington and Hamilton.
The Black Caps have also made notable inclusions, calling up bowling all-rounder Nathan Smith for the first time, alongside uncapped pacer Jacob Duffy. However, Ajaz Patel, who took 15 wickets in India, was left out, with Mitchell Santner selected as the primary spinner, supported by Glenn Phillips. Injuries ruled out Ben Sears (knee) and Kyle Jamieson (back).
Selector Sam Wells emphasized the significance of the series, saying, “It’s a crucial series for our World Test Championship campaign, and with Tim Southee set to retire, it adds extra weight to the occasion.” While New Zealand’s victory in India boosted their World Test Championship hopes, even a series whitewash over England might not secure them a spot in next year’s final.
Wells also expressed excitement about Nathan Smith’s inclusion, stating, “Nathan is a talented all-rounder with a strong first-class record, and we’re confident he will bring skill and energy to the team.” He acknowledged the tough decision to omit Ajaz Patel but explained it was based on home conditions and Santner’s recent performances.
The Black Caps will be led by Tom Latham, who took over the captaincy from Southee last month and guided New Zealand to a historic series win in India.
For Southee, the series will be an emotional farewell. The 35-year-old fast bowler, who debuted against England in 2008, has taken 385 wickets in 104 Tests, second only to Sir Richard Hadlee’s 431 for New Zealand.
Reflecting on his career, Southee said, “Representing New Zealand has been a dream come true. It feels like the right time to step away from the game that has given me so much.”
New Zealand Test Squad:
Tom Latham (capt), Tom Blundell, Devon Conway, Jacob Duffy, Matt Henry, Daryl Mitchell, Will O’Rourke, Glenn Phillips, Rachin Ravindra, Mitchell Santner, Nathan Smith, Tim Southee, Kane Williamson, Will Young.