New Zealand unveil squad for home Test series against England; Kane Williamson returns

New Zealand have unveiled their squad for the upcoming three-match home Test series against England, starting November 28 in Christchurch. The series promises exciting contests, with a star player set to make his comeback in the red-ball format.

Kane Williamson returns after groin injury

Kane Williamson, New Zealand’s former captain and premier batter, will make his return to the Test format after recovering from a groin injury sustained in Sri Lanka. The injury had ruled him out of New Zealand’s recent 3-0 series win against India, where his absence was keenly felt despite the team’s successful performance. Williamson has replaced Mark Chapman in the squad and will add experience and stability to the batting lineup as New Zealand prepares to host England.

Nathan Smith earns maiden Test call-up

All-rounder Nathan Smith has been selected for the first time in New Zealand’s Test squad. The 26-year-old recently debuted internationally in the ODI series against Sri Lanka but had a challenging start, conceding 66 runs in his eight overs and scoring only nine runs with the bat. Despite this, Smith’s impressive performance in domestic cricket, where he claimed 33 wickets in the Plunket Shield at an average of 17, has earned him a spot in the red-ball setup.

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Mitchell Santner to lead spin attack in second and third Tests

Mitchell Santner, who recently led New Zealand to a memorable victory over India with a remarkable 13-wicket haul, will play a crucial role in the second and third Tests at Wellington and Hamilton, respectively. However, he has not been selected for the series opener in Christchurch, with New Zealand opting to assess conditions before including the frontline spinner in the later matches.

Ben Sears and Kyle Jamieson unavailable due to injury

New Zealand will be without fast bowler Ben Sears and all-rounder Kyle Jamieson, both of whom are undergoing rehabilitation from injuries. Sears is recovering from a knee injury, while Jamieson continues to work through a back injury. Their absence creates opportunities for other players in the pace attack to step up in the high-stakes series.

New Zealand squad for England Tests

Tom Latham (c), Tom Blundell (wk), Devon Conway, Jacob Duffy, Matt Henry, Daryl Mitchell, Will O’Rourke, Glenn Phillips, Rachin Ravindra, Mitchell Santner (2nd & 3rd Tests), Nathan Smith, Tim Southee, Kane Williamson, Will Young

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