New Zealand Announces Squad for Zimbabwe Test Series

Auckland: New Zealand Cricket (NZC) has revealed its 15-member team for the upcoming two-Test series against Zimbabwe. The matches are scheduled from July 30 to August 11 in Bulawayo.

Several prominent players, including Kane Williamson and Michael Bracewell, will not be participating in this series, which is not part of the ICC World Test Championship (WTC).

Williamson is set to play for Middlesex in the County Championship and London Spirit in The Hundred. Bracewell is currently engaged with MI New York in Major League Cricket (MLC) in the United States until July 14.

New Zealand’s newly appointed head coach, Rob Walter, commended Williamson and Bracewell for their open communication regarding their availability.

Walter stated, “Kane and Michael were upfront with NZC regarding their availability for this tour during the contracting process. While all Test matches hold significance, the fact that these aren’t part of the ICC World Test Championship influenced the discussions.”

The Blackcaps have also had to make adjustments to their bowling lineup due to the unavailability of Kyle Jamieson and Ben Sears. Jamieson is awaiting the birth of his child, while Sears is recovering from a side strain.

This situation has created an opportunity for 25-year-old Matthew Fisher, who has received his first Test call-up. The right-arm pacer has showcased his talent in 14 first-class matches, securing 51 wickets with an impressive average of 24.11.

Walter expressed his excitement about Fisher, highlighting his potential to be a game-changer on the tour, noting, “Matt’s someone we’re really excited about. He’s among the quickest bowlers in the nation, and we believe he brings an X-factor.”

He added, “We are fortunate to have a strong contingent of fast bowlers in the country, and we’re eager to integrate Matt into that group, providing him with touring experience and an understanding of what it means to be a part of the Black Caps.”

Both Test matches will be held at Bulawayo’s Queens Sports Club, with the first from July 30 to August 3 and the second from August 7 to 11.

New Zealand Test Squad: Tom Latham (c), Tom Blundell (wk), Devon Conway, Jacob Duffy, Matt Fisher, Matt Henry, Daryl Mitchell, Henry Nicholls, Will O’Rourke, Ajaz Patel, Glenn Phillips, Rachin Ravindra, Mitchell Santner, Nathan Smith, Will Young.