Kane Williamson Returns to New Zealand Squad for West Indies Tests

AUCKLAND: New Zealand Cricket (NZC) has confirmed a 14-man Test squad with the inclusion of a superstar batter, Kane Williamson, for the upcoming three-match series against the West Indies next month.

Williamson, who is 35 years old, is the highest Test run-scorer and a former captain in New Zealand. Earlier this year, he withdrew from T20 internationals and skipped the two-Test tour of Zimbabwe held in July-August.

Head coach Rob Walter welcomed the experienced right-hander’s comeback, saying, “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.”

All-rounder Daryl Mitchell is also included and is expected to be fully fit after sustaining a minor groin injury in the first ODI against the West Indies.

Zak Foulkes, who impressed on his second Test appearance when he made 9-75 match figures against Zimbabwe, is still in the pace attack. He is joined by Jacob Duffy, who also earned his maiden Test cap in that match.

Blair Tickner is recalled to the Test squad after being the player-of-the-match in the last 2 ODIs against England.

The Test series begins in Christchurch on December 2, followed by the second Test in Wellington on December 10. The final match will be played at Mount Maunganui on December 18.

New Zealand squad for West Indies Tests:

Tom Latham (c), Tom Blundell, Michael Bracewell, Devon Conway, Jacob Duffy, Zak Foulkes, Matt Henry, Daryl Mitchell, Rachin Ravindra, Mitchell Santner, Nathan Smith, Blair Tickner, Kane Williamson, Will Young